FGF8-mediated gene regulation affects regional identity in human cerebral organoids

Michele Bertacchi, Gwendoline Maharaux, Agnès Loubat, Matthieu Jung, Michèle Studer (2024) FGF8-mediated gene regulation affects regional identity in human cerebral organoids. eLife 13:e98096. https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.98096

The roles of FGF signaling and its effector genes remain poorly characterized in human experimental models mimicking early fetal telencephalic development.

In this publication, scientists under the supervision of Dr Michele Studer used an optimized protocol for human iPSC-derived brain organoid generation to study how FGF8 signalling impacts neuronal development and differentiation. MaxOne Single-Well HD-MEA was used to characterize the electrical activity of these organoids. The results showed that prolonged FGF8 exposure affects neuronal identity and function (in terms of glutamatergic versus GABAergic balance and activity), consequently influencing the spontaneous electrical activity of neuronal circuits developing in 3D organoids. Moreover, it was reported that FGF8 efficiently modulates key regulators responsible for several human neurodevelopmental disorders.

This work provides a biologically accurate cell culture model, offering a valuable tool for advancing research into human brain development and associated neurological diseases.

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• MaxOne Single-Well HD-MEA System

Related links

• MaxWell Webinar with Prof. Dr. Michèle Studer and Dr. Michele Bertacchi

MaxWell Biosystems extends heartfelt congratulations to all authors on this transformative research and eagerly looks forward to its future impact.