Long read RNA sequencing reveals a new long non-coding RNA that regulates somatic cell reprogramming and pluripotency

However, identifying new functional isoforms is still very difficult. Here, we leverage long-read RNA sequencing to study changes in isoforms during somatic cell reprogramming and identify novel isoforms occurring throughout cell state transitions.

We demonstrate tight regulation of non-coding isoforms and show that isoform switching plays previously overlooked functional roles and outcomes in gene regulation and cell fate changes. We uncover a novel long non-coding RNA, Snhg26, that undergoes isoform switching during reprogramming to enhance the conversion of differentiated cells towards the pluripotent state. Knock-down of Snhg26 in mouse and human pluripotency models reveals that it is important for pluripotency acquisition.