Described herein are methods for enhancing the nuclear reprogramming of somatic cells to become induced pluripotent stem cells. In particular, the methods disclosed herein involve the use of damage-associated molecular pattern molecules (DAMP). In certain embodiments the DAMPs are aluminum compositions such as aluminum hydroxide. Such DAMPs have unexpectedly and surprisingly been found to enhance the nuclear reprogramming efficiency of the reprogramming factors commonly used to induce somatic cells to become induced pluripotent stem cells. Accordingly, this disclosure describes methods of nuclear reprogramming as well as cells obtained from such methods along with therapeutic methods for using such cells for the treatment of disease amendable to treatment by stem cell therapy; as well as kits for such uses.