Abstract:Differentiated somatic cells can be transformed back into pluripotent state or into other types of cells by reprogramming and trans-differentiation, and may provide functional cells for regenerative medicine. Due to their structural versatility and being easy of application in time- and concentration-dependent ways, small molecule compounds are highly useful in inducing somatic cell reprogramming or trans-differentiation. In this review, we summarize the recent progresses in full chemical-mediated reprogramming and trans-differentiation.