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OSK Factors

Meaning

OSK Factors is a collective term referring to the three specific transcription factors—Oct4 (Octamer-binding transcription factor 4), Sox2 (Sex-determining region Y-box 2), and Klf4 (Kruppel-like factor 4)—which are necessary components of the original Yamanaka cocktail used to induce pluripotency. These powerful factors are critical in the field of regenerative medicine for reprogramming somatic, adult cells back into a state resembling embryonic stem cells, known as induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs). They represent a fundamental, groundbreaking tool for cellular rejuvenation and longevity research.