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Researchers grow active mini-brain-networks

Scientists have created functional neural networks derived from cerebral organoids, which can mimic the development of the human brain. The study provides a new tool for understanding brain function and may lead to breakthroughs in drug discovery, modeling neuropsychiatric disorders, and regenerative medicine.

SourceCell Press·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 27, 2019

Ultimate destiny

Researchers from Harvard Medical School and others have discovered that undifferentiated cells face multiple competing choices before committing to their ultimate destiny. By analyzing single-cell sequencing data, they found that genetic programs regulate various cellular functions and influence cell specialization.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2019

A road map to stem cell development

Researchers have created a method to track gene expression in cells during development, providing unprecedented detail. This technique could be used to develop future regenerative treatments for diseases like macular degeneration and other neurological disorders.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateMay 22, 2019

A nerve cell serves as a 'single' for studies

Scientists at the University of Bonn and Amsterdam created a novel human nerve cell model consisting of a single nerve cell from pluripotent stem cells, providing highly standardized conditions for investigating nerve cell functions. The model was tested with various stimulation experiments and demonstrated highly reproducible data.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 14, 2019

Back to the sources of neural diversity

Swiss and Belgian researchers decipher the genetic programmes of neurons in the cerebral cortex to understand how specific cell types are generated. They found temporal patterns of gene expression that control the developmental scenario, which may contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience·DateMay 9, 2019

The development of brain stem cells into new nerve cells and why this can lead to cancer

Researchers at German Cancer Research Center discovered that stem cell genes remain active, allowing for reversible decision-making in becoming a neuron or reverting back to stem cell. Uncontrolled TOR activity can cause brain cancer, highlighting the importance of controlling this signal for future stem cell therapy developments

Alzheimer's in a dish

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have created a new model of sporadic Alzheimer's disease, which points to molecular causes and potential treatments. The model, reported in Cell Reports, removes a major obstacle for scientists seeking to understand the disease.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 29, 2019

Growing a brain

Researchers discovered a two-step control mechanism in neural stem cells that differentiates into neurons and astrocytes. PRC1 represses genes related to neuronal function temporarily and permanently at two distinct stages of brain development.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateDec 17, 2018

Scientists grow functioning human neural networks in 3D from stem cells

Researchers at Tufts University have developed 3D human tissue culture models for the central nervous system that mimic brain structure and function. The models allow for the exploration of cell interactions, disease progression, and response to treatment, enabling the study of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceTufts University·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateOct 18, 2018

UMN researchers use 3D technology to identify optimal stem cells for transplantation

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have discovered a subset of muscle stem cells that are located close to blood vessels and are likely to be the more potent stem cell population in maintaining muscle health. This groundbreaking study uses 3D technology to study the interaction between stem cells and blood vessel...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateOct 4, 2018