Autophagic factor Beclin1 inhibits direct cardiac reprogramming

Fibroblasts can be directly reprogrammed into induced cardiomyocytes (iCM) by expression of cardiac transcription factors Mef2c, Gata4, and Tbx5 (collectively called MGT). Since fibroblasts are readily available, this approach holds great potential for cardiac regeneration. However, the molecular basis underlying this conversion is still largely unknown. The starting fibroblasts must overcome epigenetic barriers, re-orchestrate chromatin organizations, and remodel cellular structures to obtain CM-like features.Bachelor of Art