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Eun J, Lee JE, Yang SH. Cerebral organoid research for pediatric patients with neurological disorders. Clin Exp Pediatr 2025; 68:269-277. [PMID: 39608368 PMCID: PMC11969208 DOI: 10.3345/cep.2024.01235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2024] [Revised: 10/14/2024] [Accepted: 10/15/2024] [Indexed: 11/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Cerebral organoids derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells offer a groundbreaking foundation for the analysis of pediatric neurological diseases. Unlike organoids from other somatic systems, cerebral organoids present unique challenges, such as the high sensitivity of neuronal cells to environmental conditions and the complexity of replicating brain-specific architectures. Cerebral organoids replicate the human brain development and pathology, enabling research on conditions such as microcephaly, Rett syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, and brain tumors. This review explores the utility of cerebral organoids for modeling diseases and testing therapeutic interventions. Despite current limitations such as variability and lack of vascularization, recent technological advancements have improved the reliability and application of such interventions. Cerebral organoids provide valuable insight into the mechanisms underlying complex neural disorders and hold promise as novel treatment strategies for pediatric neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Eun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Eun Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Vincent’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung Ho Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Vincent’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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Salem IH, Blais M, Zuluaga-Sánchez VM, Rouleau L, Becker EBE, Dupré N. ARSACS: Clinical Features, Pathophysiology and iPS-Derived Models. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2025; 24:24. [PMID: 39753868 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-024-01777-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2025]
Abstract
Autosomal-recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS) is an early-onset neurodegenerative disease caused by mutations in the SACS gene. The first two mutations were identified in French Canadian populations 20 years ago. The disease is now known as one of the most frequent recessive ataxias worldwide. Prominent features include cerebellar ataxia, pyramidal spasticity, and neuropathy. Neuropathological findings revealed cerebellar atrophy of the superior cerebellar vermis and the anterior vermis associated with Purkinje cell death, pyramidal degeneration, cortical atrophy, loss of motor neurons, and demyelinating neuropathy. No effective therapy is available for ARSACS patients but, in the last two decades, there have been significant advances in our understanding of the disease. New approaches in ARSACS, such as the reprogramming of induced pluripotent stem cells derived from patients, open exciting perspectives of discoveries. Several research questions are now emerging. Here, we review the clinical features of ARSACS as well as the cerebellar aspects of the disease, with an emphasis on recent fields of investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikhlass Haj Salem
- Axe neurosciences du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Mathieu Blais
- Axe neurosciences du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Valeria M Zuluaga-Sánchez
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Laurence Rouleau
- Axe neurosciences du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Esther B E Becker
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicolas Dupré
- Axe neurosciences du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.
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3
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Zhu Z, Cheng Y, Liu X, Ding W, Liu J, Ling Z, Wu L. Advances in the Development and Application of Human Organoids: Techniques, Applications, and Future Perspectives. Cell Transplant 2025; 34:9636897241303271. [PMID: 39874083 PMCID: PMC11775963 DOI: 10.1177/09636897241303271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 10/10/2024] [Accepted: 11/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2025] Open
Abstract
Organoids are three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures derived from human pluripotent stem cells or adult stem cells that recapitulate the cellular heterogeneity, structure, and function of human organs. These microstructures are invaluable for biomedical research due to their ability to closely mimic the complexity of native tissues while retaining human genetic material. This fidelity to native organ systems positions organoids as a powerful tool for advancing our understanding of human biology and for enhancing preclinical drug testing. Recent advancements have led to the successful development of a variety of organoid types, reflecting a broad range of human organs and tissues. This progress has expanded their application across several domains, including regenerative medicine, where organoids offer potential for tissue replacement and repair; disease modeling, which allows for the study of disease mechanisms and progression in a controlled environment; drug discovery and evaluation, where organoids provide a more accurate platform for testing drug efficacy and safety; and microecological research, where they contribute to understanding the interactions between microbes and host tissues. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development of organoid technology, highlights the key achievements and ongoing challenges in the field, and discusses the current and emerging applications of organoids in both laboratory research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhangcheng Zhu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yiwen Cheng
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jiaming Liu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zongxin Ling
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingbin Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lishui Second People’s Hospital, Lishui, China
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Ku CC, Pan JB, Wuputra K, Hsu WL, Kato K, Noguchi M, Nakamura Y, Saito S, Tsai CY, Lin YC, Wu DC, Lin CS, Yokoyama KK. Trans-differentiation of Jdp2-depleted Gaba-receptor-positive cerebellar granule cells to Purkinje cells. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:500. [PMID: 39695141 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02262-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 11/20/2024] [Accepted: 12/04/2024] [Indexed: 12/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The Jun dimerization protein (Jdp2) gene is active in mouse cerebellar granule cells and its protein product plays a crucial role in the formation of the cerebellum lobes through programmed cell death. However, the role of Jdp2 in cellular differentiation and pluripotency in the cerebellum, and the effect of the antioxidation reaction on cell plasticity, remain unknown. N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) induced the early commitment of the differentiation of granule cell precursors (GCPs) to neurons, especially Purkinje cells, via the γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor α6 subunit (Gabra6) axis; moreover, Jdp2 depletion enhanced this differentiation program of GCPs. The antioxidative effect of NAC was the main driving force of this decision toward the neural differentiation of the GCP population in the presence of Gabra6 in vitro. This implies that antioxidative drugs are effective agents for rescuing oxidative-stress-induced GCP damages in the cerebellum and commit this Gabra6-positive cell population toward differentiation into Purkinje cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Chen Ku
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Cell Therapy and Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Bin Pan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Cell Therapy and Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kenly Wuputra
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Cell Therapy and Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Li Hsu
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- National Center for Geriatrics and Welfare Research, National Health Research Institutes, Yunlin County, Taiwan
| | - Kohsuke Kato
- Department of Infection Biology, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, the University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Michiya Noguchi
- Cell Engineering Division, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yukio Nakamura
- Cell Engineering Division, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Shigeo Saito
- Saito Laboratory of Cell Technology, Yaita, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Cheng-Yu Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Gangshan Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chu Lin
- School of Dentistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Deng-Chyang Wu
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Chang-Shen Lin
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kazunari K Yokoyama
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- Cell Therapy and Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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Shi Y, Han X, Zou S, Liu G. Nanomaterials in Organoids: From Interactions to Personalized Medicine. ACS NANO 2024; 18:33276-33292. [PMID: 39609736 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c13330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2024]
Abstract
Organoids are three-dimensional models of microscopic organisms created through the self-organization of various types of stem cells. They are widely unitized in personalized medicine due to their capacity to replicate the structure and functionality of native organs. Meanwhile, nanotechnology has been integrated into diagnostic and therapeutic tools to manage an array of medical conditions, given its unique characteristics of nanoscale. Nanomaterials have demonstrated potential in developing innovative and effective organoids. With a focus on studying the interaction of nanomaterials and organoid technology in personalized medicine, this Review examines the role of nanomaterials in regulating the fate of stem cells to construct different types of organoids. It also explores the potential of nanotechnology to create 3D microenvironments for organoids. Finally, perspectives and challenges of applying nanotechnology for organoids development toward the translation of personalized medicine are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Shi
- Integrated Devices and Intelligent Diagnosis (ID2) Laboratory, CUHK(SZ)-Boyalife Joint Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Programme, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Xin Han
- Integrated Devices and Intelligent Diagnosis (ID2) Laboratory, CUHK(SZ)-Boyalife Joint Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Programme, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Siyi Zou
- Integrated Devices and Intelligent Diagnosis (ID2) Laboratory, CUHK(SZ)-Boyalife Joint Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Programme, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Guozhen Liu
- Integrated Devices and Intelligent Diagnosis (ID2) Laboratory, CUHK(SZ)-Boyalife Joint Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Programme, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
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Lancaster MA. Pluripotent stem cell-derived organoids: A brief history of curiosity-led discoveries. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2400105. [PMID: 39101295 PMCID: PMC11589667 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202400105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Organoids are quickly becoming an accepted model for understanding human biology and disease. Pluripotent stem cells (PSC) provide a starting point for many organs and enable modeling of the embryonic development and maturation of such organs. The foundation of PSC-derived organoids can be found in elegant developmental studies demonstrating the remarkable ability of immature cells to undergo histogenesis even when taken out of the embryo context. PSC-organoids are an evolution of earlier methods such as embryoid bodies, taken to a new level with finer control and in some cases going beyond tissue histogenesis to organ-like morphogenesis. But many of the discoveries that led to organoids were not necessarily planned, but rather the result of inquisitive minds with freedom to explore. Protecting such curiosity-led research through flexible funding will be important going forward if we are to see further ground-breaking discoveries.
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Wang Y, Liu W, Jiao Y, Yang Y, Shan D, Ji X, Zhang R, Zhan Z, Tang Y, Guo D, Yan C, Liu F. Advances in the Differentiation of hiPSCs into Cerebellar Neuronal Cells. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:1782-1794. [PMID: 39023738 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10763-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
The cerebellum has historically been primarily associated with the regulation of precise motor functions. However, recent findings suggest that it also plays a pivotal role in the development of advanced cognitive functions, including learning, memory, and emotion regulation. Pathological changes in the cerebellum, whether congenital hereditary or acquired degenerative, can result in a diverse spectrum of disorders, ranging from genetic spinocerebellar ataxias to psychiatric conditions such as autism, and schizophrenia. While studies in animal models have significantly contributed to our understanding of the genetic networks governing cerebellar development, it is important to note that the human cerebellum follows a protracted developmental timeline compared to the neocortex. Consequently, employing animal models to uncover human-specific molecular events in cerebellar development presents significant challenges. The emergence of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) has provided an invaluable tool for creating human-based culture systems, enabling the modeling and analysis of cerebellar physiology and pathology. hiPSCs and their differentiated progenies can be derived from patients with specific disorders or carrying distinct genetic variants. Importantly, they preserve the unique genetic signatures of the individuals from whom they originate, allowing for the elucidation of human-specific molecular and cellular processes involved in cerebellar development and related disorders. This review focuses on the technical advancements in the utilization of hiPSCs for the generation of both 2D cerebellar neuronal cells and 3D cerebellar organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingxin Wang
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Wenzhu Liu
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yichang Jiao
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yitong Yang
- School of Nursing, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, 272067, China
| | - Didi Shan
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xinbo Ji
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Zexin Zhan
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yao Tang
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Dandan Guo
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Chuanzhu Yan
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- Brain Science Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- Mitochondrial Medicine Laboratory, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Shandong University, Qingdao, 266103, China.
| | - Fuchen Liu
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- Brain Science Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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Li Z, Abram L, Peall KJ. Deciphering the Pathophysiological Mechanisms Underpinning Myoclonus Dystonia Using Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cellular Models. Cells 2024; 13:1520. [PMID: 39329704 PMCID: PMC11430605 DOI: 10.3390/cells13181520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2024] [Revised: 09/04/2024] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Dystonia is a movement disorder with an estimated prevalence of 1.2% and is characterised by involuntary muscle contractions leading to abnormal postures and pain. Only symptomatic treatments are available with no disease-modifying or curative therapy, in large part due to the limited understanding of the underlying pathophysiology. However, the inherited monogenic forms of dystonia provide an opportunity for the development of disease models to examine these mechanisms. Myoclonus Dystonia, caused by SGCE mutations encoding the ε-sarcoglycan protein, represents one of now >50 monogenic forms. Previous research has implicated the involvement of the basal ganglia-cerebello-thalamo-cortical circuit in dystonia pathogenesis, but further work is needed to understand the specific molecular and cellular mechanisms. Pluripotent stem cell technology enables a patient-derived disease modelling platform harbouring disease-causing mutations. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the aetiology of Myoclonus Dystonia, recent advances in producing distinct neuronal types from pluripotent stem cells, and their application in modelling Myoclonus Dystonia in vitro. Future research employing pluripotent stem cell-derived cellular models is crucial to elucidate how distinct neuronal types may contribute to dystonia and how disruption to neuronal function can give rise to dystonic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongze Li
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (Z.L.); (L.A.)
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Laura Abram
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (Z.L.); (L.A.)
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Kathryn J. Peall
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (Z.L.); (L.A.)
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
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Osaki D, Ouji Y, Sakagami M, Kitamura T, Misu M, Kitahara T, Yoshikawa M. Culture of organoids with vestibular cell-derived factors promotes differentiation of embryonic stem cells into inner ear vestibular hair cells. J Biosci Bioeng 2023; 135:143-150. [PMID: 36503871 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vestibular hair cells (V-HCs) residing in the inner ear have important roles related to balance. Although differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into HCs has been shown, an effective method has yet to be established. We previously reported that use of vestibular cell-derived conditioned medium (V-CM) was helpful to induce embryonic stem (ES) cells to differentiate into V-HC-like cells in two-dimensional (2D) cultures of ES-derived embryoid bodies (EBs). In the present report, V-CM was used with three-dimensional (3D) cultures of EBs, which resulted in augmented expression of V-HC-related markers (Math1, Myosin6, Brn3c, Dnah5), but not of the cochlear HC-related marker Lmod3. Gene expression analyses of both 2D and 3D EBs cultured for two weeks revealed a greater level of augmented induction of HC-related markers in the 3D-cultured EBs. These results indicate that a 3D culture in combination with use of V-CM is an effective method for producing V-HCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Osaki
- Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan; Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Yukiteru Ouji
- Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Masaharu Sakagami
- Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan; Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Tomotaka Kitamura
- Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Masayasu Misu
- Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Tadashi Kitahara
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
| | - Masahide Yoshikawa
- Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
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Havins L, Capel A, Christie SD, Lewis MP, Roach P. Gradient biomimetic platforms for neurogenesis studies. J Neural Eng 2021; 19. [PMID: 34942614 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac4639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
There is a need for the development of new cellular therapies for the treatment of many diseases, with the central nervous system (CNS) currently an area of specific focus. Due to the complexity and delicacy of its biology, there is currently a limited understanding of neurogenesis and consequently a lack of reliable test platforms, resulting in several CNS based diseases having no cure. The ability to differentiate pluripotent stem cells into specific neuronal sub-types may enable scalable manufacture for clinical therapies, with a focus also on the purity and quality of the cell population. This focus is targeted towards an urgent need for the diseases that currently have no cure, e.g. Parkinson's disease. Differentiation studies carried out using traditional 2D cell culture techniques are designed using biological signals and morphogens known to be important for neurogenesis in vivo. However, such studies are limited by their simplistic nature, including a general poor efficiency and reproducibility, high reagent costs and an inability to scale-up the process to a manufacture-wide design for clinical use. Biomimetic approaches to recapitulate a more in vivo-like environment are progressing rapidly within this field, with application of bio(chemical) gradients presented both as 2D surfaces and within a 3D volume. This review focusses on the development and application of these advanced extracellular environments particularly for the neural niche. We emphasise the progress that has been made specifically in the area of stem cell derived neuronal differentiation. Increasing developments in biomaterial approaches to manufacture stem cells will enable the improvement of differentiation protocols, enhancing the efficiency and repeatability of the process with a move towards up-scaling. Progress in this area brings these techniques closer to enabling the development of therapies for the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurissa Havins
- Department of Chemistry, Loughborough University, Dept Chemistry, School of Science, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3TU, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Andrew Capel
- Loughborough University, 2National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine (NCSEM), School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Steven D Christie
- Department of Chemistry, Loughborough University, Dept Chemistry, School of Science, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3TU, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Mark P Lewis
- Loughborough University School of Sport Exercise and Health Sciences, National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine (NCSEM), School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Paul Roach
- Chemistry, Loughborough University, Dept Chemistry, School of Science, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3TU, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
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11
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Zhang T, Liu T, Hassan BA. Induction of granule and Purkinje cells from primary cultured mouse cerebellar progenitors. STAR Protoc 2021; 2:100760. [PMID: 34467229 PMCID: PMC8384916 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2021.100760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The architecturally stereotypical structure of cerebellum is ideal for investigating the generation of neuronal diversity, but in vitro models for assessing early cerebellar progenitor differentiation were lacking. Here, we report a detailed protocol for long-term in vitro generation of Pax6+ granule cells and Calbindin+ Purkinje cells from common Sox2+ embryonic cerebellar progenitors. We describe the procedure for dissecting mouse cerebellar anlage, cell seeding, and tamoxifen-induced labeling of progenitor cells, followed by time-lapse video recording of clonal expansion and neuronal differentiation. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Zhang et al. (2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Zhang
- Institut du Cerveau – Paris Brain Institute – ICM, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tengyuan Liu
- Institut du Cerveau – Paris Brain Institute – ICM, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bassem A. Hassan
- Institut du Cerveau – Paris Brain Institute – ICM, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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12
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Shankaran A, Prasad K, Chaudhari S, Brand A, Satyamoorthy K. Advances in development and application of human organoids. 3 Biotech 2021; 11:257. [PMID: 33977021 PMCID: PMC8105691 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-021-02815-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Innumerable studies associated with cellular differentiation, tissue response and disease modeling have been conducted in two-dimensional (2D) culture systems or animal models. This has been invaluable in deciphering the normal and disease states in cell biology; the key shortcomings of it being suitability for translational or clinical correlations. The past decade has seen several major advances in organoid culture technologies and this has enhanced our understanding of mimicking organ reconstruction. The term organoid has generally been used to describe cellular aggregates derived from primary tissues or stem cells that can self-organize into organotypic structures. Organoids mimic the cellular microenvironment of tissues better than 2D cell culture systems and represent the tissue physiology. Human organoids of brain, thyroid, gastrointestinal, lung, cardiac, liver, pancreatic and kidney have been established from various diseases, healthy tissues and from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). Advances in patient-derived organoid culture further provides a unique perspective from which treatment modalities can be personalized. In this review article, we have discussed the current strategies for establishing various types of organoids of ectodermal, endodermal and mesodermal origin. We have also discussed their applications in modeling human health and diseases (such as cancer, genetic, neurodegenerative and infectious diseases), applications in regenerative medicine and evolutionary studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhijith Shankaran
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Planetarium Complex, Manipal, Karnataka 576104 India
| | - Keshava Prasad
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Planetarium Complex, Manipal, Karnataka 576104 India
| | - Sima Chaudhari
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Planetarium Complex, Manipal, Karnataka 576104 India
| | - Angela Brand
- Department of Public Health Genomics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104 Karnataka India
- Department International Health, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, 6229 GT Maastricht, The Netherlands
- United Nations University- Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute On Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT), Boschstraat 24, 6211 AX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kapaettu Satyamoorthy
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Planetarium Complex, Manipal, Karnataka 576104 India
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13
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Zhang T, Liu T, Mora N, Guegan J, Bertrand M, Contreras X, Hansen AH, Streicher C, Anderle M, Danda N, Tiberi L, Hippenmeyer S, Hassan BA. Generation of excitatory and inhibitory neurons from common progenitors via Notch signaling in the cerebellum. Cell Rep 2021; 35:109208. [PMID: 34107249 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain neurons arise from relatively few progenitors generating an enormous diversity of neuronal types. Nonetheless, a cardinal feature of mammalian brain neurogenesis is thought to be that excitatory and inhibitory neurons derive from separate, spatially segregated progenitors. Whether bi-potential progenitors with an intrinsic capacity to generate both lineages exist and how such a fate decision may be regulated are unknown. Using cerebellar development as a model, we discover that individual progenitors can give rise to both inhibitory and excitatory lineages. Gradations of Notch activity determine the fates of the progenitors and their daughters. Daughters with the highest levels of Notch activity retain the progenitor fate, while intermediate levels of Notch activity generate inhibitory neurons, and daughters with very low levels of Notch signaling adopt the excitatory fate. Therefore, Notch-mediated binary cell fate choice is a mechanism for regulating the ratio of excitatory to inhibitory neurons from common progenitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Zhang
- Institut du Cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tengyuan Liu
- Institut du Cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Natalia Mora
- Institut du Cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Justine Guegan
- Institut du Cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Mathilde Bertrand
- Institut du Cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Ximena Contreras
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Andi H Hansen
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Carmen Streicher
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Marica Anderle
- Armenise-Harvard Laboratory of Brain Disorders and Cancer, CIBIO, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Natasha Danda
- Institut du Cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Luca Tiberi
- Armenise-Harvard Laboratory of Brain Disorders and Cancer, CIBIO, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Simon Hippenmeyer
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Bassem A Hassan
- Institut du Cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.
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14
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Jacob F, Schnoll JG, Song H, Ming GL. Building the brain from scratch: Engineering region-specific brain organoids from human stem cells to study neural development and disease. Curr Top Dev Biol 2021; 142:477-530. [PMID: 33706925 PMCID: PMC8363060 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2020.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Human brain development is an intricate process that involves precisely timed coordination of cell proliferation, fate specification, neuronal differentiation, migration, and integration of diverse cell types. Understanding of these fundamental processes, however, has been largely constrained by limited access to fetal brain tissue and the inability to prospectively study neurodevelopment in humans at the molecular, cellular and system levels. Although non-human model organisms have provided important insights into mechanisms underlying brain development, these systems do not fully recapitulate many human-specific features that often relate to disease. To address these challenges, human brain organoids, self-assembled three-dimensional neural aggregates, have been engineered from human pluripotent stem cells to model the architecture and cellular diversity of the developing human brain. Recent advancements in neural induction and regional patterning using small molecules and growth factors have yielded protocols for generating brain organoids that recapitulate the structure and neuronal composition of distinct brain regions. Here, we first provide an overview of early mammalian brain development with an emphasis on molecular cues that guide region specification. We then focus on recent efforts in generating human brain organoids that model the development of specific brain regions and highlight endeavors to enhance the cellular complexity to better mimic the in vivo developing human brain. We also provide examples of how organoid models have enhanced our understanding of human neurological diseases and conclude by discussing limitations of brain organoids with our perspectives on future advancements to maximize their potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadi Jacob
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Medical Scientist Training Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jordan G Schnoll
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hongjun Song
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; The Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Guo-Li Ming
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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15
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In Search of Molecular Markers for Cerebellar Neurons. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041850. [PMID: 33673348 PMCID: PMC7918299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The cerebellum, the region of the brain primarily responsible for motor coordination and balance, also contributes to non-motor functions, such as cognition, speech, and language comprehension. Maldevelopment and dysfunction of the cerebellum lead to cerebellar ataxia and may even be associated with autism, depression, and cognitive deficits. Hence, normal development of the cerebellum and its neuronal circuitry is critical for the cerebellum to function properly. Although nine major types of cerebellar neurons have been identified in the cerebellar cortex to date, the exact functions of each type are not fully understood due to a lack of cell-specific markers in neurons that renders cell-specific labeling and functional study by genetic manipulation unfeasible. The availability of cell-specific markers is thus vital for understanding the role of each neuronal type in the cerebellum and for elucidating the interactions between cell types within both the developing and mature cerebellum. This review discusses various technical approaches and recent progress in the search for cell-specific markers for cerebellar neurons.
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16
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Duzagac F, Saorin G, Memeo L, Canzonieri V, Rizzolio F. Microfluidic Organoids-on-a-Chip: Quantum Leap in Cancer Research. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:737. [PMID: 33578886 PMCID: PMC7916612 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ-like cell clusters, so-called organoids, which exhibit self-organized and similar organ functionality as the tissue of origin, have provided a whole new level of bioinspiration for ex vivo systems. Microfluidic organoid or organs-on-a-chip platforms are a new group of micro-engineered promising models that recapitulate 3D tissue structure and physiology and combines several advantages of current in vivo and in vitro models. Microfluidics technology is used in numerous applications since it allows us to control and manipulate fluid flows with a high degree of accuracy. This system is an emerging tool for understanding disease development and progression, especially for personalized therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment, which provide well-grounded, cost-effective, powerful, fast, and reproducible results. In this review, we highlight how the organoid-on-a-chip models have improved the potential of efficiency and reproducibility of organoid cultures. More widely, we discuss current challenges and development on organoid culture systems together with microfluidic approaches and their limitations. Finally, we describe the recent progress and potential utilization in the organs-on-a-chip practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahriye Duzagac
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 30123 Venezia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.S.)
| | - Gloria Saorin
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 30123 Venezia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.S.)
| | - Lorenzo Memeo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), 95029 Catania, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Canzonieri
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy;
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Flavio Rizzolio
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 30123 Venezia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.S.)
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy;
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17
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Macrì S, Di-Poï N. Heterochronic Developmental Shifts Underlying Squamate Cerebellar Diversity Unveil the Key Features of Amniote Cerebellogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:593377. [PMID: 33195265 PMCID: PMC7642464 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.593377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite a remarkable conservation of architecture and function, the cerebellum of vertebrates shows extensive variation in morphology, size, and foliation pattern. These features make this brain subdivision a powerful model to investigate the evolutionary developmental mechanisms underlying neuroanatomical complexity both within and between anamniote and amniote species. Here, we fill a major evolutionary gap by characterizing the developing cerebellum in two non-avian reptile species-bearded dragon lizard and African house snake-representative of extreme cerebellar morphologies and neuronal arrangement patterns found in squamates. Our data suggest that developmental strategies regarded as exclusive hallmark of birds and mammals, including transit amplification in an external granule layer (EGL) and Sonic hedgehog expression by underlying Purkinje cells (PCs), contribute to squamate cerebellogenesis independently from foliation pattern. Furthermore, direct comparison of our models suggests the key importance of spatiotemporal patterning and dynamic interaction between granule cells and PCs in defining cortical organization. Especially, the observed heterochronic shifts in early cerebellogenesis events, including upper rhombic lip progenitor activity and EGL maintenance, are strongly expected to affect the dynamics of molecular interaction between neuronal cell types in snakes. Altogether, these findings help clarifying some of the morphogenetic and molecular underpinnings of amniote cerebellar corticogenesis, but also suggest new potential molecular mechanisms underlying cerebellar complexity in squamates. Furthermore, squamate models analyzed here are revealed as key animal models to further understand mechanisms of brain organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Macrì
- Program in Developmental Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nicolas Di-Poï
- Program in Developmental Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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18
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Panoutsopoulos AA. Organoids, Assembloids, and Novel Biotechnology: Steps Forward in Developmental and Disease-Related Neuroscience. Neuroscientist 2020; 27:463-472. [PMID: 32981451 DOI: 10.1177/1073858420960112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In neuroscience research, the efforts to find the model through which we can mimic the in vivo microenvironment of a developing or defective brain have been everlasting. While model organisms are used for over a hundred years, many more methods have been introduced with immortalized or primary cell lines and later induced pluripotent stem cells and organoids to be some of these. As the use of organoids becomes more and more common by many laboratories in biology and neuroscience in particular, it is crucial to deeper understand the challenges and possible pitfalls of their application in research, many of which can be surpassed with the support of state-of-the art bioengineering solutions. In this review, after a brief chronicle of the path to the discovery of organoids, we focus on the latest approaches to study neuroscience related topics with organoids, such as the use of assembloids, CRISPR technology, patch-clamp and optogenetics techniques and discuss how modern 3-dimensional biomaterials, miniaturized bioreactors and microfluidic chips can help to overcome the disadvantages of their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexios A Panoutsopoulos
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.,Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children-Northern California, Sacramento, CA, USA
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19
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Investigating developmental and disease mechanisms of the cerebellum with pluripotent stem cells. Mol Cell Neurosci 2020; 107:103530. [PMID: 32693017 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2020.103530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The cerebellum is a brain region located in the dorsal part of the anterior hindbrain, composed of a highly stereotyped neural circuit structure with small sets of neurons. The cerebellum is involved in a wide variety of functions such as motor control, learning, cognition and others. Damage to the cerebellum often leads to impairments in motor skills (cerebellar ataxia). Cerebellar ataxia can occur as a result of neurodegenerative diseases such as spinocerebellar ataxia. Recent advances in technologies related to pluripotent stem cells and their neural differentiation has enabled researchers to investigate the mechanisms of development and of disease in the human brain. Here, we review recent applications of leading-edge stem cell technologies to the mechanistic investigation of human cerebellar development and neurological diseases affecting the cerebellum.
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20
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Corrò C, Novellasdemunt L, Li VSW. A brief history of organoids. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2020; 319:C151-C165. [PMID: 32459504 PMCID: PMC7468890 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00120.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 262] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In vitro cell cultures are crucial research tools for modeling human development and diseases. Although the conventional monolayer cell cultures have been widely used in the past, the lack of tissue architecture and complexity of such model fails to inform the true biological processes in vivo. Recent advances in the organoid technology have revolutionized the in vitro culture tools for biomedical research by creating powerful three-dimensional (3D) models to recapitulate the cellular heterogeneity, structure, and functions of the primary tissues. Such organoid technology enables researchers to recreate human organs and diseases in a dish and thus holds great promises for many translational applications such as regenerative medicine, drug discovery, and precision medicine. In this review, we provide an overview of the organoid history and development. We discuss the strengths and limitations of organoids as well as their potential applications in the laboratory and the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Corrò
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London United Kingdom
| | - Laura Novellasdemunt
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London United Kingdom
| | - Vivian S W Li
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London United Kingdom
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21
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Xiang Y, Cakir B, Park IH. Deconstructing and reconstructing the human brain with regionally specified brain organoids. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 111:40-51. [PMID: 32553582 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Brain organoids, three-dimensional neural cultures recapitulating the spatiotemporal organization and function of the brain in a dish, offer unique opportunities for investigating the human brain development and diseases. To model distinct parts of the brain, various region-specific human brain organoids have been developed. In this article, we review current approaches to produce human region-specific brain organoids, developed through the endeavor of many researchers. We highlight the applications of human region-specific brain organoids, especially in reconstructing regional interactions in the brain through organoid fusion. We also outline the existing challenges to drive forward further the brain organoid technology and its applications for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangfei Xiang
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| | - Bilal Cakir
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - In-Hyun Park
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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22
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Silva TP, Bekman EP, Fernandes TG, Vaz SH, Rodrigues CAV, Diogo MM, Cabral JMS, Carmo-Fonseca M. Maturation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cerebellar Neurons in the Absence of Co-culture. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:70. [PMID: 32117945 PMCID: PMC7033648 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The cerebellum plays a critical role in all vertebrates, and many neurological disorders are associated with cerebellum dysfunction. A major limitation in cerebellar research has been the lack of adequate disease models. As an alternative to animal models, cerebellar neurons differentiated from pluripotent stem cells have been used. However, previous studies only produced limited amounts of Purkinje cells. Moreover, in vitro generation of Purkinje cells required co-culture systems, which may introduce unknown components to the system. Here we describe a novel differentiation strategy that uses defined medium to generate Purkinje cells, granule cells, interneurons, and deep cerebellar nuclei projection neurons, that self-formed and differentiated into electrically active cells. Using a defined basal medium optimized for neuronal cell culture, we successfully promoted the differentiation of cerebellar precursors without the need for co-culturing. We anticipate that our findings may help developing better models for the study of cerebellar dysfunctions, while providing an advance toward the development of autologous replacement strategies for treating cerebellar degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa P Silva
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Evguenia P Bekman
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,The Discoveries Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Tiago G Fernandes
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sandra H Vaz
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carlos A V Rodrigues
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Margarida Diogo
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joaquim M S Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Carmo-Fonseca
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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23
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Cendelin J, Buffo A, Hirai H, Magrassi L, Mitoma H, Sherrard R, Vozeh F, Manto M. Task Force Paper On Cerebellar Transplantation: Are We Ready to Treat Cerebellar Disorders with Cell Therapy? THE CEREBELLUM 2019; 18:575-592. [PMID: 30607797 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-018-0999-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Restoration of damaged central nervous system structures, functional recovery, and prevention of neuronal loss during neurodegenerative diseases are major objectives in cerebellar research. The highly organized anatomical structure of the cerebellum with numerous inputs/outputs, the complexity of cerebellar functions, and the large spectrum of cerebellar ataxias render therapies of cerebellar disorders highly challenging. There are currently several therapeutic approaches including motor rehabilitation, neuroprotective drugs, non-invasive cerebellar stimulation, molecularly based therapy targeting pathogenesis of the disease, and neurotransplantation. We discuss the goals and possible beneficial mechanisms of transplantation therapy for cerebellar damage and its limitations and factors determining outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Cendelin
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, alej Svobody 1655/76, 323 00, Plzen, Czech Republic
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, alej Svobody 1655/76, 323 00, Plzen, Czech Republic
| | - Annalisa Buffo
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi-Montalcini, University of Turin, 10126, Turin, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Orbassano, 10043, Turin, Italy
| | - Hirokazu Hirai
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neural Repair, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Lorenzo Magrassi
- Neurosurgery, Dipartimento di Scienze Clinico-Chirurgiche Diagnostiche e Pediatriche, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico S. Matteo, Università degli Studi di Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare - CNR, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Hiroshi Mitoma
- Medical Education Promotion Center, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rachel Sherrard
- IBPS, UMR8256 Biological Adaptation and Ageing, Sorbonne Université and CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Frantisek Vozeh
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, alej Svobody 1655/76, 323 00, Plzen, Czech Republic
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, alej Svobody 1655/76, 323 00, Plzen, Czech Republic
| | - Mario Manto
- Department of Neurology, CHU-Charleroi, 6000, Charleroi, Belgium.
- Service des Neurosciences, Université de Mons, 7000, Mons, Belgium.
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24
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Alexander CJ, Hammer JA. An Improved Method for Differentiating Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells into Cerebellar Purkinje Neurons. THE CEREBELLUM 2019; 18:406-421. [PMID: 30729383 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-019-1007-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
While mixed primary cerebellar cultures prepared from embryonic tissue have proven valuable for dissecting structure-function relationships in cerebellar Purkinje neurons (PNs), this technique is technically challenging and often yields few cells. Recently, mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) have been successfully differentiated into PNs, although the published methods are very challenging as well. The focus of this study was to simplify the differentiation of mESCs into PNs. Using a recently described neural differentiation media, we generate monolayers of neural progenitor cells from mESCs and differentiate them into PN precursors using specific extrinsic factors. These PN precursors are then differentiated into mature PNs by co-culturing them with granule neuron (GN) precursors also derived from neural progenitors using different extrinsic factors. The morphology of mESC-derived PNs is indistinguishable from PNs grown in primary culture in terms of gross morphology, spine length, and spine density. Furthermore, mESC-derived PNs express Calbindin D28K, IP3R1, IRBIT, PLCβ4, PSD93, and myosin IIB-B2, all of which are either PN-specific or highly expressed in PNs. Moreover, we show that mESC-derived PNs form synapses with GN-like cells as in primary culture, express proteins driven by the PN-specific promoter Pcp2/L7, and exhibit the defect in spine ER inheritance seen in PNs isolated from dilute-lethal (myosin Va-null) mice when expressing a Pcp2/L7-driven miRNA directed against myosin Va. Finally, we define a novel extracellular matrix formulation that reproducibly yields monolayer cultures conducive for high-resolution imaging. Our improved method for differentiating mESCs into PNs should facilitate the dissection of molecular mechanisms and disease phenotypes in PNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Alexander
- Cell and Developmental Biology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - John A Hammer
- Cell and Developmental Biology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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25
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Kaneyama T, Shirasaki R. Post-crossing segment of dI1 commissural axons forms collateral branches to motor neurons in the developing spinal cord. J Comp Neurol 2019; 526:1943-1961. [PMID: 29752714 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The dI1 commissural axons in the developing spinal cord, upon crossing the midline through the floor plate, make a sharp turn to grow rostrally. These post-crossing axons initially just extend adjacent to the floor plate without entering nearby motor columns. However, it remains poorly characterized how these post-crossing dI1 axons behave subsequently to this process. In the present study, to address this issue, we examined in detail the behavior of post-crossing dI1 axons in mice, using the Atoh1 enhancer-based conditional expression system that enables selective and sparse labeling of individual dI1 axons, together with Hb9 and ChAT immunohistochemistry for precise identification of spinal motor neurons (MNs). We found unexpectedly that the post-crossing segment of dI1 axons later gave off collateral branches that extended laterally to invade motor columns. Interestingly, these collateral branches emerged at around the time when their primary growth cones initiated invasion into motor columns. In addition, although the length of the laterally growing collateral branches increased with age, the majority of them remained within motor columns. Strikingly, these collateral branches further gave rise to multiple secondary branches in the region of MNs that innervate muscles close to the body axis. Moreover, these axonal branches formed presynaptic terminals on MNs. These observations demonstrate that dI1 commissural neurons develop axonal projection to spinal MNs via collateral branches arising later from the post-crossing segment of these axons. Our findings thus reveal a previously unrecognized projection of dI1 commissural axons that may contribute directly to generating proper motor output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Kaneyama
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Shirasaki
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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26
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Gopalakrishnan J. The Emergence of Stem Cell-Based Brain Organoids: Trends and Challenges. Bioessays 2019; 41:e1900011. [PMID: 31274205 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201900011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent developments in 3D cultures exploiting the self-organization ability of pluripotent stem cells have enabled the generation of powerful in vitro systems termed brain organoids. These 3D tissues recapitulate many aspects of human brain development and disorders occurring in vivo. When combined with improved differentiation methods, these in vitro systems allow the generation of more complex "assembloids," which are able to reveal cell diversities, microcircuits, and cell-cell interactions within their 3D organization. Here, the ways in which human brain organoids have contributed to demystifying the complexities of brain development and modeling of developmental disorders is reviewed and discussed. Furthermore, challenging questions that are yet to be addressed by emerging brain organoid research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay Gopalakrishnan
- Institut für Humangenetik, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.,IUF-Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
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27
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Sakagami M, Ouji Y, Kawai N, Misu M, Yoshikawa M, Kitahara T. Differentiation of embryonic stem cells into inner ear vestibular hair cells using vestibular cell derived-conditioned medium. Biochem Biophys Rep 2019; 19:100649. [PMID: 31193276 PMCID: PMC6525281 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2019.100649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Vestibular hair cells (V-HCs) in the inner ear have important roles and various functions. When V-HCs are damaged, crippling symptoms, such as vertigo, visual field oscillation, and imbalance, are often seen. Recently, several studies have reported differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cells, as pluripotent stem cells, to HCs, though a method for producing V-HCs has yet to be established. In the present study, we used vestibular cell conditioned medium (V-CM) and effectively induced ES cells to differentiate into V-HCs. Expressions of V-HC-related markers (Math1, Myosin6, Brn3c, Dnah5) were significantly increased in ES cells cultured in V-CM for 2 weeks, while those were not observed in ES cells cultured without V-CM. On the other hand, the cochlear HC-related marker Lmod3 was either not detected or detected only faintly in those cells when cultured in V-CM. Our results demonstrate that V-CM has an ability to specifically induce differentiation of ES cells into V-HCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaharu Sakagami
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan.,Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Yukiteru Ouji
- Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Norikazu Kawai
- Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Masayasu Misu
- Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Masahide Yoshikawa
- Department of Pathogen, Infection and Immunity, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Tadashi Kitahara
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
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28
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Nayler SP, Becker EBE. The Use of Stem Cell-Derived Neurons for Understanding Development and Disease of the Cerebellum. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:646. [PMID: 30319335 PMCID: PMC6168705 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The cerebellum is a fascinating brain structure, containing more neurons than the rest of the brain combined. The cerebellum develops according to a highly orchestrated program into a well-organized laminar structure. Much has been learned about the underlying genetic networks controlling cerebellar development through the study of various animal models. Cerebellar development in humans however, is significantly protracted and more complex. Given that the cerebellum regulates a number of motor and non-motor functions and is affected in a wide variety of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, a better understanding of human cerebellar development is highly desirable. Pluripotent stem cells offer an exciting new tool to unravel human cerebellar development and disease by providing a dynamic and malleable platform, which is amenable to genetic manipulation and temporally unrestricted sampling. It remains to be seen, however, whether in vitro neuronal cultures derived from pluripotent stem cells fully recapitulate the formation and organization of the developing nervous system, with many reports detailing the functionally immature nature of these cultures. Nevertheless, recent advances in differentiation protocols, cell-sampling methodologies, and access to informatics resources mean that the field is poised for remarkable discoveries. In this review, we provide a general overview of the field of neuronal differentiation, focusing on the cerebellum and highlighting conceptual advances in understanding neuronal maturity, including a discussion of both current and emerging methods to classify, and influence neuroanatomical identity and maturation status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel P Nayler
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Esther B E Becker
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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29
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Holmes DB, Heine VM. Streamlined 3D Cerebellar Differentiation Protocol with Optional 2D Modification. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 29286492 PMCID: PMC5755539 DOI: 10.3791/56888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Reducing the complexity and cost of differentiation protocols is important for researchers. This interest fits with concerns about possible unintended effects that extrinsic patterning factors might introduce into human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) models of brain development or pathophysiology, such as masking disease phenotype. Here, we present two cerebellar differentiation protocols for hPSCs, designed with simpler startup method, fewer patterning factors, and less material requirements than previous protocols. Recently, we developed culture procedures, which generate free-floating 3-dimensional (3D) products consistent with other brain "organoid" protocols, including morphologies relevant to modeling brain development such as sub/ventricular zone- and rhombic lip-like structures. The second uses an adherent, 2D monolayer procedure to complete differentiation, which is shown capable of generating functional cerebellar neurons, as products are positive for cerebellar-associated markers, and exhibit neuron-like calcium influxes. Together, these protocols offer scientists a choice of options suited to different research purposes, as well as a basic model for testing other types of streamlined neural differentiations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwayne B Holmes
- Department of Pediatrics/Child Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center
| | - Vivi M Heine
- Department of Pediatrics/Child Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center; Department of Complex Trait Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam;
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30
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Nayler SP, Powell JE, Vanichkina DP, Korn O, Wells CA, Kanjhan R, Sun J, Taft RJ, Lavin MF, Wolvetang EJ. Human iPSC-Derived Cerebellar Neurons from a Patient with Ataxia-Telangiectasia Reveal Disrupted Gene Regulatory Networks. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:321. [PMID: 29081736 PMCID: PMC5645492 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) is a rare genetic disorder caused by loss of function of the ataxia-telangiectasia-mutated kinase and is characterized by a predisposition to cancer, pulmonary disease, immune deficiency and progressive degeneration of the cerebellum. As animal models do not faithfully recapitulate the neurological aspects, it remains unclear whether cerebellar degeneration is a neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative phenotype. To address the necessity for a human model, we first assessed a previously published protocol for the ability to generate cerebellar neuronal cells, finding it gave rise to a population of precursors highly enriched for markers of the early hindbrain such as EN1 and GBX2, and later more mature cerebellar markers including PTF1α, MATH1, HOXB4, ZIC3, PAX6, and TUJ1. RNA sequencing was used to classify differentiated cerebellar neurons generated from integration-free A-T and control induced pluripotent stem cells. Comparison of RNA sequencing data with datasets from the Allen Brain Atlas reveals in vitro-derived cerebellar neurons are transcriptionally similar to discrete regions of the human cerebellum, and most closely resemble the cerebellum at 22 weeks post-conception. We show that patient-derived cerebellar neurons exhibit disrupted gene regulatory networks associated with synaptic vesicle dynamics and oxidative stress, offering the first molecular insights into early cerebellar pathogenesis of ataxia-telangiectasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam P Nayler
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Joseph E Powell
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.,Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Darya P Vanichkina
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Othmar Korn
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Christine A Wells
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Refik Kanjhan
- School of Biomedical Science, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Jian Sun
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Ryan J Taft
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.,Department of Integrated Systems Biology and Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Health Services, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States.,Illumina, Inc.,, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Martin F Lavin
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ernst J Wolvetang
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
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31
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An expandable embryonic stem cell-derived Purkinje neuron progenitor population that exhibits in vivo maturation in the adult mouse cerebellum. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8863. [PMID: 28821816 PMCID: PMC5562837 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09348-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The directed differentiation of patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells into cell-type specific neurons has inspired the development of therapeutic discovery for neurodegenerative diseases. Many forms of ataxia result from degeneration of cerebellar Purkinje cells, but thus far it has not been possible to efficiently generate Purkinje neuron (PN) progenitors from human or mouse pluripotent stem cells, let alone to develop a methodology for in vivo transplantation in the adult cerebellum. Here, we present a protocol to obtain an expandable population of cerebellar neuron progenitors from mouse embryonic stem cells. Our protocol is characterized by applying factors that promote proliferation of cerebellar progenitors. Cerebellar progenitors isolated in culture from cell aggregates contained a stable subpopulation of PN progenitors that could be expanded for up to 6 passages. When transplanted into the adult cerebellum of either wild-type mice or a strain lacking Purkinje cells (L7cre-ERCC1 knockout), GFP-labeled progenitors differentiated in vivo to establish a population of calbindin-positive cells in the molecular layer with dendritic trees typical of mature PNs. We conclude that this protocol may be useful for the generation and maturation of PNs, highlighting the potential for development of a regenerative medicine approach to the treatment of cerebellar neurodegenerative diseases.
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32
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Wong MMK, Watson LM, Becker EBE. Recent advances in modelling of cerebellar ataxia using induced pluripotent stem cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 2:11-15. [PMID: 28825058 PMCID: PMC5558869 DOI: 10.29245/2572.942x/2017/7.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The cerebellar ataxias are a group of incurable brain disorders that are caused primarily by the progressive dysfunction and degeneration of cerebellar Purkinje cells. The lack of reliable disease models for the heterogeneous ataxias has hindered the understanding of the underlying pathogenic mechanisms as well as the development of effective therapies for these devastating diseases. Recent advances in the field of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology offer new possibilities to better understand and potentially reverse disease pathology. Given the neurodevelopmental phenotypes observed in several types of ataxias, iPSC-based models have the potential to provide significant insights into disease progression, as well as opportunities for the development of early intervention therapies. To date, however, very few studies have successfully used iPSC-derived cells to model cerebellar ataxias. In this review, we focus on recent breakthroughs in generating human iPSC-derived Purkinje cells. We also highlight the future challenges that will need to be addressed in order to fully exploit these models for the modelling of the molecular mechanisms underlying cerebellar ataxias and the development of effective therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie M K Wong
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren M Watson
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Esther B E Becker
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
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33
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Poon A, Zhang Y, Chandrasekaran A, Phanthong P, Schmid B, Nielsen TT, Freude KK. Modeling neurodegenerative diseases with patient-derived induced pluripotent cells: Possibilities and challenges. N Biotechnol 2017; 39:190-198. [PMID: 28579476 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2017.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Revised: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The rising prevalence of progressive neurodegenerative diseases coupled with increasing longevity poses an economic burden at individual and societal levels. There is currently no effective cure for the majority of neurodegenerative diseases and disease-affected tissues from patients have been difficult to obtain for research and drug discovery in pre-clinical settings. While the use of animal models has contributed invaluable mechanistic insights and potential therapeutic targets, the translational value of animal models could be further enhanced when combined with in vitro models derived from patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and isogenic controls generated using CRISPR-Cas9 mediated genome editing. The iPSCs are self-renewable and capable of being differentiated into the cell types affected by the diseases. These in vitro models based on patient-derived iPSCs provide the opportunity to model disease development, uncover novel mechanisms and test potential therapeutics. Here we review findings from iPSC-based modeling of selected neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia and spinocerebellar ataxia. Furthermore, we discuss the possibilities of generating three-dimensional (3D) models using the iPSCs-derived cells and compare their advantages and disadvantages to conventional two-dimensional (2D) models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Poon
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Gronnegaardsvej 7, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Yu Zhang
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Gronnegaardsvej 7, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | | | - Phetcharat Phanthong
- Stem Cell Research Group, Institute of Molecular Biosciences and Deparment of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Bangkok, Mahidol University, 10400, Thailand
| | | | - Troels T Nielsen
- Danish Dementia Research Centre, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Kristine K Freude
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Gronnegaardsvej 7, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
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34
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Simanski S, Maloof ME, Sato TK, Cavett V, Caldwell Busby J, Ayad NG. A cell based screening approach for identifying protein degradation regulators. Cell Cycle 2017; 16:940-946. [PMID: 28296622 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2017.1301333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular transitions are achieved by the concerted actions of regulated degradation pathways. In the case of the cell cycle, ubiquitin mediated degradation ensures unidirectional transition from one phase to another. For instance, turnover of the cell cycle regulator cyclin B1 occurs after metaphase to induce mitotic exit. To better understand pathways controlling cyclin B1 turnover, the N-terminal domain of cyclin B1 was fused to luciferase to generate an N-cyclin B1-luciferase protein that can be used as a reporter for protein turnover. Prior studies demonstrated that cell-based screens using this reporter identified small molecules inhibiting the ubiquitin ligase controlling cyclin B1-turnover. Our group adapted this approach for the G2-M regulator Wee1 where a Wee1-luciferase construct was used to identify selective small molecules inhibiting an upstream kinase that controls Wee1 turnover. In the present study we present a screening approach where cell cycle regulators are fused to luciferase and overexpressed with cDNAs to identify specific regulators of protein turnover. We overexpressed approximately 14,000 cDNAs with the N-cyclin B1-luciferase fusion protein and determined its steady-state level relative to other luciferase fusion proteins. We identified the known APC/C regulator Cdh1 and the F-box protein Fbxl15 as specific modulators of N-cyclin B1-luciferase steady-state levels and turnover. Collectively, our studies suggest that analyzing the steady-state levels of luciferase fusion proteins in parallel facilitates identification of specific regulators of protein turnover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Simanski
- a Department of Cancer Biology , Scripps Florida, The Scripps Research Institute , Jupiter , FL , USA
| | - Marie E Maloof
- b Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , Center for Therapeutic Innovation, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center , Miami , FL , USA
| | - Trey K Sato
- c Department of Molecular Therapeutics , Scripps Florida, The Scripps Research Institute , Jupiter , FL , USA
| | - Valerie Cavett
- c Department of Molecular Therapeutics , Scripps Florida, The Scripps Research Institute , Jupiter , FL , USA
| | - Jennifer Caldwell Busby
- c Department of Molecular Therapeutics , Scripps Florida, The Scripps Research Institute , Jupiter , FL , USA
| | - Nagi G Ayad
- b Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , Center for Therapeutic Innovation, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center , Miami , FL , USA
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35
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Abstract
Here, we report a 3D cerebellar differentiation protocol with quick startup method, defined medium and no special materials or handling requirements. Three fibroblast growth factors (FGF2, 4 and 8) were used for cerebellar patterning and smoothened agonist (SAG) for granule cell development. After 35 days, differentiation products exhibited similar structures and neuronal markers reported in prior ‘organoid’ and ‘spheroid’ protocols. This included cells positive for KIRREL2 (a marker of early cerebellar neuroepithelium) and ZIC1 (a marker for granule cells). Follow-up tests indicated that addition of FGFs, if helpful, was not required to generate observed structures and cell types. This suggests that intrinsic production of patterning factors by aggregates themselves may be adequate for region-specific 3D modeling. This protocol may be used as a quick, easy and cost-efficient method for 3D culture, whether to research development of the early cerebellar neuroepithelium, a base to generate mature cortical structures, or to optimize minimal-factor protocols for other brain regions. Summary: We present a simplified method to generate early neuroepithelium of the cerebellar cortex in a 3D culture using defined medium and minimal addition of growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwayne B Holmes
- Department of Pediatrics/Child Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam 1081 HV, The Netherlands
| | - Vivi M Heine
- Department of Pediatrics/Child Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam 1081 HV, The Netherlands .,Department of Complex Trait Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University, Amsterdam 1081 HV, The Netherlands
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36
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37
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Choi H, Song J, Park G, Kim J. Modeling of Autism Using Organoid Technology. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:7789-7795. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0274-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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38
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Cendelin J. Experimental neurotransplantation treatment for hereditary cerebellar ataxias. CEREBELLUM & ATAXIAS 2016; 3:7. [PMID: 27047666 PMCID: PMC4819278 DOI: 10.1186/s40673-016-0045-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Hereditary cerebellar degenerations are a heterogeneous group of diseases often having a detrimental impact on patients’ quality of life. Unfortunately, no sufficiently effective causal therapy is available for human patients at present. There are several therapies that have been shown to affect the pathogenetic process and thereby to delay the progress of the disease in mouse models of cerebellar ataxias. The second experimental therapeutic approach for hereditary cerebellar ataxias is neurotransplantation. Grafted cells might provide an effect via delivery of a scarce neurotransmitter, substitution of lost cells if functionally integrated and rescue or trophic support of degenerating cells. The results of cerebellar transplantation research over the past 30 years are reviewed here and potential benefits and limitations of neurotransplantation therapy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Cendelin
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University in Prague, Alej Svobody 76, 323 00 Pilsen, Czech Republic
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39
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Watson LM, Wong MMK, Becker EBE. Induced pluripotent stem cell technology for modelling and therapy of cerebellar ataxia. Open Biol 2016; 5:150056. [PMID: 26136256 PMCID: PMC4632502 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.150056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology has emerged as an important tool in understanding, and potentially reversing, disease pathology. This is particularly true in the case of neurodegenerative diseases, in which the affected cell types are not readily accessible for study. Since the first descriptions of iPSC-based disease modelling, considerable advances have been made in understanding the aetiology and progression of a diverse array of neurodegenerative conditions, including Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. To date, however, relatively few studies have succeeded in using iPSCs to model the neurodegeneration observed in cerebellar ataxia. Given the distinct neurodevelopmental phenotypes associated with certain types of ataxia, iPSC-based models are likely to provide significant insights, not only into disease progression, but also to the development of early-intervention therapies. In this review, we describe the existing iPSC-based disease models of this heterogeneous group of conditions and explore the challenges associated with generating cerebellar neurons from iPSCs, which have thus far hindered the expansion of this research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Watson
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Maggie M K Wong
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Esther B E Becker
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Suzuki IK, Vanderhaeghen P. Is this a brain which I see before me? Modeling human neural development with pluripotent stem cells. Development 2016; 142:3138-50. [PMID: 26395142 DOI: 10.1242/dev.120568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The human brain is arguably the most complex structure among living organisms. However, the specific mechanisms leading to this complexity remain incompletely understood, primarily because of the poor experimental accessibility of the human embryonic brain. Over recent years, technologies based on pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) have been developed to generate neural cells of various types. While the translational potential of PSC technologies for disease modeling and/or cell replacement therapies is usually put forward as a rationale for their utility, they are also opening novel windows for direct observation and experimentation of the basic mechanisms of human brain development. PSC-based studies have revealed that a number of cardinal features of neural ontogenesis are remarkably conserved in human models, which can be studied in a reductionist fashion. They have also revealed species-specific features, which constitute attractive lines of investigation to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the development of the human brain, and its link with evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikuo K Suzuki
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IRIBHM), and ULB Institute of Neuroscience (UNI), 808 Route de Lennik, Brussels B-1070, Belgium
| | - Pierre Vanderhaeghen
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IRIBHM), and ULB Institute of Neuroscience (UNI), 808 Route de Lennik, Brussels B-1070, Belgium WELBIO, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808 Route de Lennik, Brussels B-1070, Belgium
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41
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Linares AJ, Lin CH, Damianov A, Adams KL, Novitch BG, Black DL. The splicing regulator PTBP1 controls the activity of the transcription factor Pbx1 during neuronal differentiation. eLife 2015; 4:e09268. [PMID: 26705333 PMCID: PMC4755740 DOI: 10.7554/elife.09268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The RNA-binding proteins PTBP1 and PTBP2 control programs of alternative splicing during neuronal development. PTBP2 was found to maintain embryonic splicing patterns of many synaptic and cytoskeletal proteins during differentiation of neuronal progenitor cells (NPCs) into early neurons. However, the role of the earlier PTBP1 program in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and NPCs was not clear. We show that PTBP1 controls a program of neuronal gene expression that includes the transcription factor Pbx1. We identify exons specifically regulated by PTBP1 and not PTBP2 as mouse ESCs differentiate into NPCs. We find that PTBP1 represses Pbx1 exon 7 and the expression of the neuronal Pbx1a isoform in ESCs. Using CRISPR-Cas9 to delete regulatory elements for exon 7, we induce Pbx1a expression in ESCs, finding that this activates transcription of neuronal genes. Thus, PTBP1 controls the activity of Pbx1 to suppress its neuronal transcriptional program prior to induction of NPC development. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.09268.001 The neurons that transmit information around the nervous system develop in several stages. Embryonic stem cells specialize to form neuronal progenitor cells, which then develop into neurons. These cell types have different characteristics, in part because they make different proteins or different versions of the same proteins. To make a protein, the DNA sequence of a gene is used to build a molecule of ribonucleic acid (RNA) that acts as a template for the protein. However, not all of this sequence codes for the protein. The non-coding regions must be removed from the RNA, and the remaining “exons” joined together to form the final “mRNA” template. Not all of the exons are necessarily included in the final mRNA molecule. By joining together different combinations of exons, several different versions of a protein can be produced from a single gene. This process is known as alternative splicing. One way that alternative splicing is controlled is through proteins that bind to RNA and determine which exons are included or excluded from the final mRNA molecule. PTBP1 is an RNA-binding protein that controls alternative splicing in embryonic stem cells and neuronal progenitor cells. Embryonic stem cells have the ability to develop into all the cells of the body. In contrast, neuronal progenitor cells are restricted in their development and only give rise to specialized cells of the nervous system. The role of PTBP1 in these properties was not clear. Linares et al. have now used a range of techniques to study the RNA molecules produced in these two cell types and how these RNAs change when PTBP1 is removed. This identified many RNAs whose splicing is regulated by PTBP1, including mRNAs of the gene that produces a protein called Pbx1, which is an important regulator of neuronal development. Further investigation revealed that PTBP1 prevents a particular exon being included in the mRNA template for Pbx1. This creates an embryonic stem cell form of Pbx1 that does not affect neuronal genes. Removal of PTBP1 allows splicing of the Pbx1 exon and produces a version of Pbx1 that is found in neuronal progenitor cells and which turns on neuronal genes. Thus, through its action on Pbx1, one role of PTBP1 is to enable stem cells to maintain their non-neuronal properties and prevent their premature development into neuronal progenitor cells. The gene for Pbx1 is only one of many genes controlled by PTBP1 at the level of splicing. One challenge for the future will be to understand how these genes work together in a common program that determines the properties of stem cells. Another question regards how the different Pbx1 proteins in stem cells and in neuronal progenitors can exert different effects in the cells where they are made. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.09268.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Linares
- Molecular Biology Institute Graduate Program, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Chia-Ho Lin
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Andrey Damianov
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Katrina L Adams
- Molecular Biology Institute Graduate Program, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Bennett G Novitch
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States.,Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Douglas L Black
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States.,Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
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42
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Hara S, Kaneyama T, Inamata Y, Onodera R, Shirasaki R. Interstitial branch formation within the red nucleus by deep cerebellar nuclei-derived commissural axons during target recognition. J Comp Neurol 2015; 524:999-1014. [DOI: 10.1002/cne.23888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Hara
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences; Osaka University; Suita Osaka 565-0871 Japan
| | - Takeshi Kaneyama
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences; Osaka University; Suita Osaka 565-0871 Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Inamata
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences; Osaka University; Suita Osaka 565-0871 Japan
| | - Ryota Onodera
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences; Osaka University; Suita Osaka 565-0871 Japan
| | - Ryuichi Shirasaki
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences; Osaka University; Suita Osaka 565-0871 Japan
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Wiethoff S, Arber C, Li A, Wray S, Houlden H, Patani R. Using human induced pluripotent stem cells to model cerebellar disease: hope and hype. J Neurogenet 2015; 29:95-102. [PMID: 25985846 PMCID: PMC4673530 DOI: 10.3109/01677063.2015.1053478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The cerebellum forms a highly ordered and indispensible component of motor function within the adult neuraxis, consisting of several distinct cellular subtypes. Cerebellar disease, through a variety of genetic and acquired causes, results in the loss of function of defined subclasses of neurons, and remains a significant and untreatable health care burden. The scarcity of therapies in this arena can partially be explained by unresolved disease mechanisms due to inaccessibility of human cerebellar neurons in a relevant experimental context where initiating disease mechanisms could be functionally elucidated, or drug screens conducted. In this review we discuss the potential promise of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) for regenerative neurology, with a particular emphasis on in vitro modelling of cerebellar degeneration. We discuss progress made thus far using hiPSC-based models of neurodegeneration, noting the relatively slower pace of discovery made in modelling cerebellar dysfunction. We conclude by speculating how strategies attempting cerebellar differentiation from hiPSCs can be refined to allow the generation of accurate disease models. This in turn will permit a greater understanding of cerebellar pathophysiology to inform mechanistically rationalised therapies, which are desperately needed in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Wiethoff
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Center for Neurology and Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Eberhard-Karls-University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Charles Arber
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience and Queen Square Brain Bank, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Abi Li
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience and Queen Square Brain Bank, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Selina Wray
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience and Queen Square Brain Bank, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Henry Houlden
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Rickie Patani
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience and Queen Square Brain Bank, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Euan MacDonald Centre for MND, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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44
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Merkle FT, Maroof A, Wataya T, Sasai Y, Studer L, Eggan K, Schier AF. Generation of neuropeptidergic hypothalamic neurons from human pluripotent stem cells. Development 2015; 142:633-43. [PMID: 25670790 DOI: 10.1242/dev.117978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic neurons orchestrate many essential physiological and behavioral processes via secreted neuropeptides, and are relevant to human diseases such as obesity, narcolepsy and infertility. We report the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into many of the major types of neuropeptidergic hypothalamic neurons, including those producing pro-opiolemelanocortin, agouti-related peptide, hypocretin/orexin, melanin-concentrating hormone, oxytocin, arginine vasopressin, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) or thyrotropin-releasing hormone. Hypothalamic neurons can be generated using a 'self-patterning' strategy that yields a broad array of cell types, or via a more reproducible directed differentiation approach. Stem cell-derived human hypothalamic neurons share characteristic morphological properties and gene expression patterns with their counterparts in vivo, and are able to integrate into the mouse brain. These neurons could form the basis of cellular models, chemical screens or cellular therapies to study and treat common human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian T Merkle
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Asif Maroof
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Takafumi Wataya
- Center for Developmental Biology, RIKEN, Kobe 650-0047, Japan Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto ON M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Yoshiki Sasai
- Center for Developmental Biology, RIKEN, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Lorenz Studer
- The Center for Stem Cell Biology, Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, New York, NY 10065, USA Developmental Biology Program, Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Kevin Eggan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Alexander F Schier
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
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45
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Wang S, Wang B, Pan N, Fu L, Wang C, Song G, An J, Liu Z, Zhu W, Guan Y, Xu ZQD, Chan P, Chen Z, Zhang YA. Differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells to mature functional Purkinje neurons. Sci Rep 2015; 5:9232. [PMID: 25782665 PMCID: PMC4363833 DOI: 10.1038/srep09232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
It remains a challenge to differentiate human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) or embryonic stem (ES) cells to Purkinje cells. In this study, we derived iPSCs from human fibroblasts and directed the specification of iPSCs first to Purkinje progenitors, by adding Fgf2 and insulin to the embryoid bodies (EBs) in a time-sensitive manner, which activates the endogenous production of Wnt1 and Fgf8 from EBs that further patterned the cells towards a midbrain-hindbrain-boundary tissue identity. Neph3-positive human Purkinje progenitors were sorted out by using flow cytometry and cultured either alone or with granule cell precursors, in a 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional environment. However, Purkinje progenitors failed to mature further under above conditions. By co-culturing human Purkinje progenitors with rat cerebellar slices, we observed mature Purkinje-like cells with right morphology and marker expression patterns, which yet showed no appropriate membrane properties. Co-culture with human fetal cerebellar slices drove the progenitors to not only morphologically correct but also electrophysiologically functional Purkinje neurons. Neph3-posotive human cells could also survive transplantation into the cerebellum of newborn immunodeficient mice and differentiate to L7- and Calbindin-positive neurons. Obtaining mature human Purkinje cells in vitro has significant implications in studying the mechanisms of spinocerebellar ataxias and other cerebellar diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyan Wang
- 1] Sanofi-Xuanwu Joint Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China [2] Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China [3] Center of Parkinson's Disease, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Sanofi-Xuanwu Joint Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Na Pan
- Department of Neurobiology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Major Brain Disorders, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Linlin Fu
- Sanofi-Xuanwu Joint Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Chaodong Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, Xuanwu Hosptial, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Gongru Song
- Sanofi-Xuanwu Joint Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Jing An
- Sanofi-Xuanwu Joint Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Zhongfeng Liu
- Sanofi-Xuanwu Joint Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Wanwan Zhu
- Sanofi-Xuanwu Joint Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Yunqian Guan
- Sanofi-Xuanwu Joint Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Zhi-Qing David Xu
- Department of Neurobiology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Major Brain Disorders, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Piu Chan
- 1] Center of Parkinson's Disease, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China [2] Department of Neurobiology, Xuanwu Hosptial, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Zhiguo Chen
- 1] Sanofi-Xuanwu Joint Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China [2] Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China [3] Center of Parkinson's Disease, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
| | - Y Alex Zhang
- 1] Sanofi-Xuanwu Joint Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China [2] China R&D Center, Sanofi, Beijing 100022, China
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Tong KK, Ma TC, Kwan KM. BMP/Smad signaling and embryonic cerebellum development: Stem cell specification and heterogeneity of anterior rhombic lip. Dev Growth Differ 2015; 57:121-34. [DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ka Kui Tong
- School of Life Sciences; The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong China
| | - Tsz Ching Ma
- School of Life Sciences; The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong China
| | - Kin Ming Kwan
- School of Life Sciences; The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong China
- RGC-AoE Centre for Organelle Biogenesis and Function; The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong China
- Partner State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology (CUHK); The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong China
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47
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Self-organization of polarized cerebellar tissue in 3D culture of human pluripotent stem cells. Cell Rep 2015; 10:537-50. [PMID: 25640179 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.12.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 477] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
During cerebellar development, the main portion of the cerebellar plate neuroepithelium gives birth to Purkinje cells and interneurons, whereas the rhombic lip, the germinal zone at its dorsal edge, generates granule cells and cerebellar nuclei neurons. However, it remains elusive how these components cooperate to form the intricate cerebellar structure. Here, we found that a polarized cerebellar structure self-organizes in 3D human embryonic stem cell (ESC) culture. The self-organized neuroepithelium differentiates into electrophysiologically functional Purkinje cells. The addition of fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) promotes spontaneous generation of dorsoventrally polarized neural-tube-like structures at the level of the cerebellum. Furthermore, addition of SDF1 and FGF19 promotes the generation of a continuous cerebellar plate neuroepithelium with rhombic-lip-like structure at one end and a three-layer cytoarchitecture similar to the embryonic cerebellum. Thus, human-ESC-derived cerebellar progenitors exhibit substantial self-organizing potential for generating a polarized structure reminiscent of the early human cerebellum at the first trimester.
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48
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Lancaster MA, Knoblich JA. Organogenesis in a dish: modeling development and disease using organoid technologies. Science 2014; 345:1247125. [PMID: 25035496 DOI: 10.1126/science.1247125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1879] [Impact Index Per Article: 170.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Classical experiments performed half a century ago demonstrated the immense self-organizing capacity of vertebrate cells. Even after complete dissociation, cells can reaggregate and reconstruct the original architecture of an organ. More recently, this outstanding feature was used to rebuild organ parts or even complete organs from tissue or embryonic stem cells. Such stem cell-derived three-dimensional cultures are called organoids. Because organoids can be grown from human stem cells and from patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells, they have the potential to model human development and disease. Furthermore, they have potential for drug testing and even future organ replacement strategies. Here, we summarize this rapidly evolving field and outline the potential of organoid technology for future biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline A Lancaster
- IMBA-Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Science Vienna 1030, Austria
| | - Juergen A Knoblich
- IMBA-Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Science Vienna 1030, Austria.
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49
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Cocks G, Curran S, Gami P, Uwanogho D, Jeffries AR, Kathuria A, Lucchesi W, Wood V, Dixon R, Ogilvie C, Steckler T, Price J. The utility of patient specific induced pluripotent stem cells for the modelling of Autistic Spectrum Disorders. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:1079-88. [PMID: 23839283 PMCID: PMC3932164 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3196-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Until now, models of psychiatric diseases have typically been animal models. Whether they were to be used to further understand the pathophysiology of the disorder, or as drug discovery tools, animal models have been the choice of preference in mimicking psychiatric disorders in an experimental setting. While there have been cellular models, they have generally been lacking in validity. This situation is changing with the advent of patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). In this article, we give a methodological evaluation of the current state of the iPS technology with reference to our own work in generating patient-specific iPSCs for the study of autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). In addition, we will give a broader perspective on the validity of this technology and to what extent it can be expected to complement animal models of ASD in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Cocks
- Department of Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, King’s College London, 125 Coldharbour lane, London, UK
| | - Sarah Curran
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department and MRC Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Priya Gami
- Department of Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, King’s College London, 125 Coldharbour lane, London, UK
| | - Dafe Uwanogho
- Department of Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, King’s College London, 125 Coldharbour lane, London, UK
| | - Aaron R. Jeffries
- Department of Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, King’s College London, 125 Coldharbour lane, London, UK
| | - Annie Kathuria
- Department of Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, King’s College London, 125 Coldharbour lane, London, UK
| | - Walter Lucchesi
- Department of Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, King’s College London, 125 Coldharbour lane, London, UK
| | - Victoria Wood
- Department of Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, King’s College London, 125 Coldharbour lane, London, UK
| | - Rosemary Dixon
- Department of Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, King’s College London, 125 Coldharbour lane, London, UK
| | - Caroline Ogilvie
- Guy’s and St. Thomas’ Centre for Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis and Genetics Centre, Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Thomas Steckler
- Neuroscience Discovery, Janssen Research and Development, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Jack Price
- Department of Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, King’s College London, 125 Coldharbour lane, London, UK
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50
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Sasai Y. Next-generation regenerative medicine: organogenesis from stem cells in 3D culture. Cell Stem Cell 2014; 12:520-30. [PMID: 23642363 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2013.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 287] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The behavior of stem cells, when they work collectively, can be much more sophisticated than one might expect from their individual programming. This Perspective covers recent discoveries about the dynamic patterning and structural self-formation of complex organ buds in 3D stem cell culture, including the generation of various neuroectodermal and endodermal tissues. For some tissues, epithelial-mesenchymal interactions can also be manipulated in coculture to guide organogenesis. This new area of stem cell research-the spatiotemporal control of dynamic cellular interactions-will open a new avenue for next-generation regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiki Sasai
- Neurogenesis and Organogenesis Group, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.
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