Low oxygen levels prevent X chromosome inactivation in human embryonic stem cells
Thursday, May 13, 2010 - 12:40
in Biology & Nature
Oxygen levels in the lab can permanently alter human embryonic stem (ES) cells, specifically inducing X chromosome inactivation in female cells, according to Whitehead Institute researchers. Human ES cells have been routinely created and maintained at atmospheric levels of oxygen, which is about 20%. Cells in the body are usually exposed to only 1-9% oxygen.