Endogenous Retrovirus in Cell Fate Decision: Reprogramming, Development and Disease

Endogenous Retroviruses (ERVs), relics from ancient viral infections, form a significant part of vertebrate genomes, including humans, where they constitute nearly 8% of our genetic material. Initially regarded as "junk DNA," these elements are now recognized for their critical roles in genomic regulation, influencing processes such as stem cell pluripotency, embryonic development, and disease. ERVs contribute by reshaping transcriptional networks and affecting cell fate decisions through their reactivation or dysregulation, impacting areas from somatic reprogramming to disease manifestations. While ERV reactivation can enhance pluripotency through mechanisms like the ERVH48-1 in human iPSC generation, their dysregulation is linked with cancer, autism, and autoimmune conditions, highlighting their paradoxical roles in human biology.This Research Topic aims to unravel the complex interplay of ERVs in cellular and developmental processes and their implications in disease. Key questions include deciphering how ERV-driven epigenetic remodeling contributes to iPSC generation and exploring the potential of non-integrative ERV utilization in reprogramming technologies. Furthermore, understanding the spatiotemporal regulation of ERVs during embryogenesis and their lineage-specific roles in organogenesis can provide insights into developmental biology. Additionally, investigating the involvement of ERVs in cancer, neurodegeneration, and autoimmune diseases will elucidate their roles in both promoting and disrupting genetic stability and immune responses.To gather further insights into ERVs' dual roles in development and disease, contributions should be directed towards topics within these boundaries. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:o ERV-mediated epigenetic remodeling in induced pluripotent stem cell generation.o Utilization and mechanism of non-integrative ERVs in reprogramming technologies.o Spatiotemporal regulation and lineage-specific functions of ERVs in embryogenesis and organogenesis.o The role of ERVs in cancer immunogenicity and progression.o ERV contributions to neurodevelopmental disorders and autoimmune dysregulations. Topic editors: Dongwei Li, Vinay Shukla, Kai Lei, Christopher S Ahuja Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80352/endogenous-retrovirus-in-cell-fate-decision-reprogramming-development-and-disease