Low oxygen levels prevent X chromosome inactivation in human embryonic stem cells

Friday, May 14, 2010 - 07:22 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...

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