Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are created by the reprogramming of 
somatic cells via overexpression of certain transcription factors, such as the 
originally described Yamanaka factors: Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc (OSKM). Here 
we discuss recent advancements in iPSC reprogramming and introduce mathematical 
approaches to help map the landscape between cell states during reprogramming. 
Our modelization indicates that OSKM expression diminishes and/or changes 
potential barriers between cell states and that epigenetic remodeling facilitate 
these transitions. From a practical perspective, the modeling approaches 
outlined here allow us to predict the time necessary to create a given number of 
iPSC colonies or the number of reprogrammed cells generated in a given time. 
Additional investigations will help to further refine modeling strategies, 
rendering them applicable toward the study of the development and stability of 
cancer cells or even other reprogramming processes such as lineage conversion. 
Ultimately, a quantitative understanding of cell state transitions might 
facilitate the establishment of regenerative medicine strategies and enhance the 
translation of reprogramming technologies into the clinic.