Effect of prolonged differentiation on functional maturation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived neuronal cultures

High content screening miniaturization and single cell imaging of mature human feeder layer-free iPSC-derived neurons

Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons are being increasingly used for high content imaging and screening. However, iPSC-derived neuronal differentiation and maturation is time-intensive, often requiring >8 weeks. Unfortunately, the differentiating and maturing iPSC-derived neuronal cultures also tend to migrate and coalesce into ganglion-like clusters making single-cell analysis challenging, especially in miniaturized formats. Using our defined extracellular matrix and low oxygen culturing conditions for the differentiation and maturation of human cortical neurons, we further modified neuronal progenitor cell seeding densities and feeder layer-free culturing conditions in miniaturized formats (i.e., 96 well) to decrease neuronal clustering, enhance single-cell identification and reduce edge effects usually observed after extended neuronal cell culture. Subsequent algorithm development refined capabilities to distinguish and identify single mature neurons, as identified by NeuN expression, from large cellular aggregates, which were excluded from image analysis. Incorporation of astrocyte conditioned medium during differentiation and maturation periods significantly increased the percentage (i.e., ∼10% to ∼30%) of mature neurons (i.e., NeuN+) detected at 4-weeks post-differentiation. Pilot, proof of concept studies using this optimized assay system yielded negligible edge effects and robust Z-factors in population-based as well as image-based neurotoxicity assay formats. Moreover, moxidectin, an FDA-approved drug with documented neurotoxic adverse effects, was identified as a hit using both screening formats. This miniaturized, feeder layer-free format and image analysis algorithm provides a foundational imaging and screening platform, which enables quantitative single-cell analysis of differentiated human neurons.

Neuropharmacology of human TERA2.cl.SP12 stem cell-derived neurons in ultra-long-term culture for antiseizure drug discovery

Modeling the complex and prolonged development of the mammalian central nervous system in vitro remains a profound challenge. Most studies of human stem cell derived neurons are conducted over days to weeks and may or may not include glia. Here we have utilized a single human pluripotent stem cell line, TERA2.cl.SP12 to derive both neurons and glial cells and determined their differentiation and functional maturation over 1 year in culture together with their ability to display epileptiform activity in response to pro-convulsant agents and to detect antiseizure drug actions. Our experiments show that these human stem cells differentiate in vitro into mature neurons and glia cells and form inhibitory and excitatory synapses and integrated neural circuits over 6-8 months, paralleling early human neurogenesis in vivo; these neuroglia cultures display complex electrochemical signaling including high frequency trains of action potentials from single neurons, neural network bursts and highly synchronized, rhythmical firing patterns. Neural activity in our 2D neuron-glia circuits is modulated by a variety of voltage-gated and ligand-gated ion channel acting drugs and these actions were consistent in both young and highly mature neuron cultures. We also show for the first time that spontaneous and epileptiform activity is modulated by first, second and third generation antiseizure agents consistent with animal and human studies. Together, our observations strongly support the value of long-term human stem cell-derived neuroglial cultures in disease modeling and neuropsychiatric drug discovery.

Molecular and Functional Characterization of Different BrainSphere Models for Use in Neurotoxicity Testing on Microelectrode Arrays

The currently accepted methods for neurotoxicity (NT) testing rely on animal studies. However, high costs and low testing throughput hinder their application for large numbers of chemicals. To overcome these limitations, in vitro methods are currently being developed based on human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) that allow higher testing throughput at lower costs. We applied six different protocols to generate 3D BrainSphere models for acute NT evaluation. These include three different media for 2D neural induction and two media for subsequent 3D differentiation resulting in self-organized, organotypic neuron/astrocyte microtissues. All induction protocols yielded nearly 100% NESTIN-positive hiPSC-derived neural progenitor cells (hiNPCs), though with different gene expression profiles concerning regional patterning. Moreover, gene expression and immunocytochemistry analyses revealed that the choice of media determines neural differentiation patterns. On the functional level, BrainSpheres exhibited different levels of electrical activity on microelectrode arrays (MEA). Spike sorting allowed BrainSphere functional characterization with the mixed cultures consisting of GABAergic, glutamatergic, dopaminergic, serotonergic, and cholinergic neurons. A test method for acute NT testing, the human multi-neurotransmitter receptor (hMNR) assay, was proposed to apply such MEA-based spike sorting. These models are promising tools not only in toxicology but also for drug development and disease modeling.

From phenomenological to biophysical models of seizures

Epilepsy is a complex disease that requires various approaches for its study. In this short review, we discuss the contribution of theoretical and computational models. The review presents theoretical frameworks that underlie the understanding of certain seizure properties and their classification based on their dynamical properties at the onset and offset of seizures. Dynamical system tools are valuable resources in the study of seizures. By analyzing the complex, dynamic behavior of seizures, these tools can provide insights into seizure mechanisms and offer a framework for their classification. Additionally, computational models have high potential for clinical applications, as they can be used to develop more accurate diagnostic and personalized medicine tools. We discuss various modeling approaches that span different scales and levels, while also questioning the neurocentric view, and emphasize the importance of considering glial cells. Finally, we explore the epistemic value provided by this type of approach.

Cellular response to β-amyloid neurotoxicity in Alzheimer's disease and implications in new therapeutics

β-Amyloid (Aβ) is a specific pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Because of its neurotoxicity, AD patients exhibit multiple brain dysfunctions. Disease-modifying therapy (DMT) is the central concept in the development of AD therapeutics today, and most DMT drugs that are currently in clinical trials are anti-Aβ drugs, such as aducanumab and lecanemab. Therefore, understanding Aβ's neurotoxic mechanism is crucial for Aβ-targeted drug development. Despite its total length of only a few dozen amino acids, Aβ is incredibly diverse. In addition to the well-known Aβ1-42 , N-terminally truncated, glutaminyl cyclase (QC) catalyzed, and pyroglutamate-modified Aβ (pEAβ) is also highly amyloidogenic and far more cytotoxic. The extracellular monomeric Aβx-42 (x = 1-11) initiates the aggregation to form fibrils and plaques and causes many abnormal cellular responses through cell membrane receptors and receptor-coupled signal pathways. These signal cascades further influence many cellular metabolism-related processes, such as gene expression, cell cycle, and cell fate, and ultimately cause severe neural cell damage. However, endogenous cellular anti-Aβ defense processes always accompany the Aβ-induced microenvironment alterations. Aβ-cleaving endopeptidases, Aβ-degrading ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), and Aβ-engulfing glial cell immune responses are all essential self-defense mechanisms that we can leverage to develop new drugs. This review discusses some of the most recent advances in understanding Aβ-centric AD mechanisms and suggests prospects for promising anti-Aβ strategies.

Different iPSC-derived neural stem cells shows various spectrums of spontaneous differentiation during long term cultivation

Introduction

Culturing of human neural stem cells (NSCs) derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) is a promising area of research, as these cells have the potential to treat a wide range of neurological, neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. However, the development of optimal protocols for the production and long-term culturing of NSCs remains a challenge. One of the most important aspects of this problem is to determine the stability of NSCs during long-term in vitro passaging. To address this problem, our study was aimed at investigating the spontaneous differentiation profile in different iPSC-derived human NSCs cultures during long-term cultivation using.

Methods

Four different IPSC lines were used to generate NSC and spontaneously differentiated neural cultures using DUAL SMAD inhibition. These cells were analyzed at different passages using immunocytochemistry, qPCR, bulk transcriptomes and scRNA-seq.

Results

We found that various NSC lines generate significantly different spectrums of differentiated neural cells, which can also change significantly during long-term cultivation in vitro.

Discussion

Our results indicate that both internal (genetic and epigenetic) and external (conditions and duration of cultivation) factors influence the stability of NSCs. These results have important implications for the development of optimal NSCs culturing protocols and highlight the need to further investigate the factors influencing the stability of these cells in vitro.

Recreating Tissue Structures Representative of Teratomas In Vitro Using a Combination of 3D Cell Culture Technology and Human Embryonic Stem Cells

In vitro studies using human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are a valuable method to study aspects of embryogenesis, avoiding ethical issues when using embryonic materials and species dissimilarities. The xenograft teratoma assay is often traditionally used to establish pluripotency in putative PSC populations, but also has additional applications, including the study of tissue differentiation. The stem cell field has long sought an alternative due to various well-established issues with the in vivo technique, including significant protocol variability and animal usage. We have established a two-step culture method which combines PSC-derived embryoid bodies (EBs) with porous scaffolds to enhance their viability, prolonging the time these structures can be maintained, and therefore, permitting more complex, mature differentiation. Here, we have utilised human embryonic stem cell-derived EBs, demonstrating the formation of tissue rudiments of increasing complexity over time and the ability to manipulate their differentiation through the application of exogenous morphogens to achieve specific lineages. Crucially, these EB-derived tissues are highly reminiscent of xenograft teratoma samples derived from the same cell line. We believe this in vitro approach represents a reproducible, animal-free alternative to the teratoma assay, which can be used to study human tissue development.

Human Neurons Form Axon-Mediated Functional Connections with Human Cardiomyocytes in Compartmentalized Microfluidic Chip

The cardiac autonomic nervous system (cANS) regulates cardiac function by innervating cardiac tissue with axons, and cardiomyocytes (CMs) and neurons undergo comaturation during the heart innervation in embryogenesis. As cANS is essential for cardiac function, its dysfunctions might be fatal; therefore, cardiac innervation models for studying embryogenesis, cardiac diseases, and drug screening are needed. However, previously reported neuron-cardiomyocyte (CM) coculture chips lack studies of functional neuron–CM interactions with completely human-based cell models. Here, we present a novel completely human cell-based and electrophysiologically functional cardiac innervation on a chip in which a compartmentalized microfluidic device, a 3D3C chip, was used to coculture human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neurons and CMs. The 3D3C chip enabled the coculture of both cell types with their respective culture media in their own compartments while allowing the neuronal axons to traverse between the compartments via microtunnels connecting the compartments. Furthermore, the 3D3C chip allowed the use of diverse analysis methods, including immunocytochemistry, RT-qPCR and video microscopy. This system resembled the in vivo axon-mediated neuron–CM interaction. In this study, the evaluation of the CM beating response during chemical stimulation of neurons showed that hiPSC-neurons and hiPSC-CMs formed electrophysiologically functional axon-mediated interactions.

Electrophysiological- and Neuropharmacological-Based Benchmarking of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived and Primary Rodent Neurons

Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons are of interest for studying neurological disease mechanisms, developing potential therapies and deepening our understanding of the human nervous system. However, compared to an extensive history of practice with primary rodent neuron cultures, human iPSC-neurons still require more robust characterization of expression of neuronal receptors and ion channels and functional and predictive pharmacological responses. In this study, we differentiated human amniotic fluid-derived iPSCs into a mixed population of neurons (AF-iNs). Functional assessments were performed by evaluating electrophysiological (patch-clamp) properties and the effect of a panel of neuropharmacological agents on spontaneous activity (multi-electrode arrays; MEAs). These electrophysiological data were benchmarked relative to commercially sourced human iPSC-derived neurons (CNS.4U from Ncardia), primary human neurons (ScienCell™) and primary rodent cortical/hippocampal neurons. Patch-clamp whole-cell recordings showed that mature AF-iNs generated repetitive firing of action potentials in response to depolarizations, similar to that of primary rodent cortical/hippocampal neurons, with nearly half of the neurons displaying spontaneous post-synaptic currents. Immunochemical and MEA-based analyses indicated that AF-iNs were composed of functional glutamatergic excitatory and inhibitory GABAergic neurons. Principal component analysis of MEA data indicated that human AF-iN and rat neurons exhibited distinct pharmacological and electrophysiological properties. Collectively, this study establishes a necessary prerequisite for AF-iNs as a human neuron culture model suitable for pharmacological studies.

Emerging Opportunities in Human Pluripotent Stem-Cells Based Assays to Explore the Diversity of Botulinum Neurotoxins as Future Therapeutics

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are produced by Clostridium botulinum and are responsible for botulism, a fatal disorder of the nervous system mostly induced by food poisoning. Despite being one of the most potent families of poisonous substances, BoNTs are used for both aesthetic and therapeutic indications from cosmetic reduction of wrinkles to treatment of movement disorders. The increasing understanding of the biology of BoNTs and the availability of distinct toxin serotypes and subtypes offer the prospect of expanding the range of indications for these toxins. Engineering of BoNTs is considered to provide a new avenue for improving safety and clinical benefit from these neurotoxins. Robust, high-throughput, and cost-effective assays for BoNTs activity, yet highly relevant to the human physiology, have become indispensable for a successful translation of engineered BoNTs to the clinic. This review presents an emerging family of cell-based assays that take advantage of newly developed human pluripotent stem cells and neuronal function analyses technologies.

All-Optical Electrophysiology in hiPSC-Derived Neurons With Synthetic Voltage Sensors

Voltage imaging and “all-optical electrophysiology” in human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neurons have opened unprecedented opportunities for high-throughput phenotyping of activity in neurons possessing unique genetic backgrounds of individual patients. While prior all-optical electrophysiology studies relied on genetically encoded voltage indicators, here, we demonstrate an alternative protocol using a synthetic voltage sensor and genetically encoded optogenetic actuator that generate robust and reproducible results. We demonstrate the functionality of this method by measuring spontaneous and evoked activity in three independent hiPSC-derived neuronal cell lines with distinct genetic backgrounds.

Ubisol-Q10, a Nanomicellar and Water-Dispersible Formulation of Coenzyme-Q10 as a Potential Treatment for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease

The world continues a desperate search for therapies that could bring hope and relief to millions suffering from progressive neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s (PD). With oxidative stress thought to be a core stressor, interests have long been focused on applying redox therapies including coenzyme-Q₁₀. Therapeutic use has failed to show efficacy in human clinical trials due to poor bioavailability of this lipophilic compound. A nanomicellar, water-dispersible formulation of coenzyme-Q₁₀, Ubisol-Q₁₀, has been developed by combining coenzyme-Q₁₀ with an amphiphilic, self-emulsifying molecule of polyoxyethanyl α-tocopheryl sebacate (derivatized vitamin E). This discovery made possible, for the first time, a proper assessment of the true therapeutic value of coenzyme-Q₁₀. Micromolar concentrations of Ubisol-Q₁₀ show unprecedented neuroprotection against neurotoxin exposure in in vitro and in vivo models of neurodegeneration and was extremely effective when delivered either prior to, at the time of, and most significantly, post-neurotoxin exposure. These findings indicate a possible way forward for clinical development due to effective doses well within Federal Drug Administration guidelines. Ubisol-Q₁₀ is a potent mobilizer of astroglia, antioxidant, senescence preventer, autophagy activator, anti-inflammatory, and mitochondrial stabilizer. Here we summarize the work with oil-soluble coenzyme-Q₁₀, its limitations, and focus mainly on efficacy of water-soluble coenzyme-Q₁₀ in neurodegeneration.

[Current challenges and future perspectives of iPSC-based neurotoxicity testing]

Predicting drug-induced side effects in central nervous system is important because they can lead to the discontinuation of new drugs/candidates or the withdrawal of marketed drugs. Although many efforts are made, evaluation system using animals have not been highly predictive in humans. In addition, animal experiments are time-consuming and costly. To address these issues, in vitro evaluation methods, such as the use of New Approach Methodologies (NAM) have been explored. Human iPS cell technology has already been applied to assess drug-induced cardiotoxicity. In addition, the use of human iPS cell technology and in silico has been promoted for neurotoxicity assessment during the developmental neurotoxicity in terms of chemical safety issues. Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guidance regarding developmental neurotoxicity is under preparation. In this review, we will review the current trends in safety assessment methods for the central nervous system in light of these international trends.

Tip60 protects against amyloid-β-induced transcriptomic alterations via different modes of action in early versus late stages of neurodegeneration

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder hallmarked by amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque accumulation, neuronal cell death, and cognitive deficits that worsen during disease progression. Histone acetylation dysregulation, caused by an imbalance between reduced histone acetyltransferases (HAT) Tip60 and increased histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) levels, can directly contribute to AD pathology. However, whether such AD-associated neuroepigenetic alterations occur in response to Aβ peptide production and can be protected against by increasing Tip60 levels over the course of neurodegenerative progression remains unknown. Here we profile Tip60 HAT/HDAC2 dynamics and transcriptome-wide changes across early and late stage AD pathology in the Drosophila brain produced solely by human amyloid-β₄₂. We show that early Aβ₄₂ induction leads to disruption of Tip60 HAT/HDAC2 balance during early neurodegenerative stages preceding Aβ plaque accumulation that persists into late AD stages. Correlative transcriptome-wide studies reveal alterations in biological processes we classified as transient (early-stage only), late-onset (late-stage only), and constant (both). Increasing Tip60 HAT levels in the Aβ₄₂ fly brain protects against AD functional pathologies that include Aβ plaque accumulation, neural cell death, cognitive deficits, and shorter life-span. Strikingly, Tip60 protects against Aβ₄₂-induced transcriptomic alterations via distinct mechanisms during early and late stages of neurodegeneration. Our findings reveal distinct modes of neuroepigenetic gene changes and Tip60 neuroprotection in early versus late stages in AD that can serve as early biomarkers for AD, and support the therapeutic potential of Tip60 over the course of AD progression.

Applicability of hiPSC-Derived Neuronal Cocultures and Rodent Primary Cortical Cultures for In Vitro Seizure Liability Assessment

Seizures are life-threatening adverse drug reactions which are investigated late in drug development using rodent models. Consequently, if seizures are detected, a lot of time, money and animals have been used. Thus, there is a need for in vitro screening models using human cells to circumvent interspecies translation. We assessed the suitability of cocultures of human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neurons and astrocytes compared with rodent primary cortical cultures for in vitro seizure liability assessment using microelectrode arrays. hiPSC-derived and rodent primary cortical neuronal cocultures were exposed to 9 known (non)seizurogenic compounds (pentylenetetrazole, amoxapine, enoxacin, amoxicillin, linopirdine, pilocarpine, chlorpromazine, phenytoin, and acetaminophen) to assess effects on neuronal network activity using microelectrode array recordings. All compounds affect activity in hiPSC-derived cocultures. In rodent primary cultures all compounds, except amoxicillin changed activity. Changes in activity patterns for both cell models differ for different classes of compounds. Both models had a comparable sensitivity for exposure to amoxapine (lowest observed effect concentration [LOEC] 0.03 µM), linopirdine (LOEC 1 µM), and pilocarpine (LOEC 0.3 µM). However, hiPSC-derived cultures were about 3 times more sensitive for exposure to pentylenetetrazole (LOEC 30 µM) than rodent primary cortical cultures (LOEC 100 µM). Sensitivity of hiPSC-derived cultures for chlorpromazine, phenytoin, and enoxacin was 10-30 times higher (LOECs 0.1, 0.3, and 0.1 µM, respectively) than in rodent cultures (LOECs 10, 3, and 3 µM, respectively). Our data indicate that hiPSC-derived neuronal cocultures may outperform rodent primary cortical cultures with respect to detecting seizures, thereby paving the way towards animal-free seizure assessment.

An efficient neuron-astrocyte differentiation protocol from human embryonic stem cell-derived neural progenitors to assess chemical-induced developmental neurotoxicity

Human embryonic stem cell neuronal differentiation models provide promising in vitro tools for the prediction of developmental neurotoxicity of chemicals. Such models mimic essential elements of human relevant neuronal development, including the differentiation of a variety of brain cell types and their neuronal network formation as evidenced by specific gene and protein biomarkers. However, the reproducibility and lengthy culture duration of cell models present drawbacks and delay regulatory implementation. Here we present a relatively short and robust protocol to differentiate H9-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs) into a neuron-astrocyte co-culture. When frozen-stored NPCs were re-cultured and induced into neuron-astrocyte differentiation, they showed gene- and protein expression typical for these cells, and most notably they exhibited spontaneous electrical activity within three days of culture as measured by a multi-well micro-electrode array. Modulating the ratio of astrocytes and neurons through different growth factors including glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) did not compromise the ability to develop spontaneous electrical activity. This robust neuronal differentiation model may serve as a functional component of a testing strategy for unravelling mechanisms of developmental neurotoxicity.

Challenges in Physiological Phenotyping of hiPSC-Derived Neurons: From 2D Cultures to 3D Brain Organoids

Neurons derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC-derived neurons) offer novel opportunities for the development of preclinical models of human neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). Recent advances in the past few years have increased substantially the potential of these techniques and have uncovered new challenges that the field is facing. Here, we outline and discuss challenges related to the functional characterization of hiPSC-derived neurons and propose ways to overcome current difficulties. In particular, the enormous variability among studies in the electrical properties of hiPSC-derived neurons and broad differences in cell maturation are factors that impair reproducibility. Furthermore, we discuss how the use of 3D brain organoids are of help in resolving some difficulties posed by 2D cultures. Finally, we elaborate on recent and future advances that may help to overcome the discussed challenges and speed-up progress in the field.

A three-dimensional biomimetic peripheral nerve model for drug testing and disease modelling

In vitro peripheral nerve models provide valuable tools to study neurobiology questions and assess drug performance, in a regenerative or pathology context. To this end, we have developed a representative model of the peripheral nerve that displays three-dimensional (3D) neural anisotropy and myelination, which we showcase here as a simple and low-cost platform for drug screening. The model is composed of three main parts, including rat primary Schwann cells (SCs) seeded onto an electrospun scaffold to create bands of Büngner (BoB), primed PC12 cells as neuronal cell population, and a fibrin hydrogel to provide three-dimensionality. We also validated the use of primed PC12 as a neuron population by comparing it to rat dorsal root ganglions (DRGs) neurons. In both models we could obtain well aligned neurites and mature myelin segments. In short term cultures (7 days), we found that the addition of exogenous SCs enhanced neurite length and neurite growth area, compared to scaffolds with a laminin coating only. Addition of fibrin also lead to increased outgrowth of DRG and primed PC12 neurites, compared to 2D cultures. Moreover, neurite outgrowth in fibrin cultures was simultaneously multiplanar and anisotropic, suggesting that the SC-seeded scaffold can direct not only the growth of adjacent neurites, but also those growing above it. These results highlight the feasibility of the combination of a SC pre-seeded scaffold with a fibrin hydrogel, to direct and improve neurite growth in 3D. To demonstrate the model potential, we tested our platform at an immature (7 days in vitro) and mature state (28 days in vitro) of development. At the immature stage we could inhibit neurite growth through protein blocking (via antibody binding) and show suramin (200 μM) neurotoxicity on cells. At the mature stage, when myelin is compact, we exposed cells to hyperglycemic conditions (45 mM glucose) to mimic diabetic conditions and showed that myelin deforms consequently. Moreover, we demonstrated that by supplementing cultures with epalrestat (1 μM), myelin deformation can be partly prevented. In sum, we developed a biomimetic nerve platform using an affordable and accessible cell line as neuronal population, which displays similar results to primary neurons, but does not require recurrent animal sacrifice. This platform holds great promise as it can be used to conveniently and inexpensively perform drug screenings on peripheral nerve-like tissue, in a normal or pathological state.

Neurons from human mesenchymal stem cells display both spontaneous and stimuli responsive activity

Mesenchymal stem cells have the ability to transdifferentiate into neurons and therefore one of the potential adult stem cell source for neuronal tissue regeneration applications and understanding neurodevelopmental processes. In many studies on human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) derived neurons, success in neuronal differentiation was limited to neuronal protein expressions which is not statisfactory in terms of neuronal activity. Established neuronal networks seen in culture have to be investigated in terms of synaptic signal transmission ability to develop a culture model for human neurons and further studying the mechanism of neuronal differentiation and neurological pathologies. Accordingly, in this study, we analysed the functionality of bone marrow hMSCs differentiated into neurons by a single step cytokine-based induction protocol. Neurons from both primary hMSCs and hMSC cell line displayed spontaneous activity (≥75%) as demonstrated by Ca++ imaging. Furthermore, when electrically stimulated, hMSC derived neurons (hMd-Neurons) matched the response of a typical neuron in the process of maturation. Our results reveal that a combination of neuronal inducers enhance differentiation capacity of bone marrow hMSCs into high yielding functional neurons with spontaneous activity and mature into electrophysiologically active state. Conceptually, we suggest these functional hMd-Neurons to be used as a tool for disease modelling of neuropathologies and neuronal differentiation studies.

Characterization and application of electrically active neuronal networks established from human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural progenitor cells for neurotoxicity evaluation

Neurotoxicity is mediated by a variety of modes-of-actions leading to disturbance of neuronal function. In order to screen larger numbers of compounds for their neurotoxic potential, in vitro functional neuronal networks (NN) might be helpful tools. We established and characterized human NN (hNN) from hiPSC-derived neural progenitor cells by comparing hNN formation with two different differentiation media: in presence (CINDA) and absence (neural differentiation medium (NDM)) of maturation-supporting factors. As a NN control we included differentiating rat NN (rNN) in the study. Gene/protein expression and electrical activity from in vitro developing NN were assessed at multiple time points. Transcriptomes of 5, 14 and 28 days in vitro CINDA-grown hNN were compared to gene expression profiles of in vivo human developing brains. Molecular expression analyses as well as measures of electrical activity indicate that NN mature into neurons of different subtypes and astrocytes over time. In contrast to rNN, hNN are less electrically active within the same period of differentiation time, yet hNN grown in CINDA medium develop higher firing rates than hNN without supplements. Challenge of NN with neuronal receptor stimulators and inhibitors demonstrate presence of inhibitory, GABAergic neurons, whereas glutamatergic responses are limited. hiPSC-derived GABAergic hNN grown in CINDA medium might be a useful tool as part of an in vitro battery for assessing neurotoxicity.

A Computational Model of Interactions Between Neuronal and Astrocytic Networks: The Role of Astrocytes in the Stability of the Neuronal Firing Rate

Recent research in neuroscience indicates the importance of tripartite synapses and gliotransmission mediated by astrocytes in neuronal system modulation. Although the astrocyte and neuronal network functions are interrelated, they are fundamentally different in their signaling patterns and, possibly, the time scales at which they operate. However, the exact nature of gliotransmission and the effect of the tripartite synapse function at the network level are currently elusive. In this paper, we propose a computational model of interactions between an astrocyte network and a neuron network, starting from tripartite synapses and spanning to a joint network level. Our model focuses on a two-dimensional setup emulating a mixed in vitro neuron-astrocyte cell culture. The model depicts astrocyte-released gliotransmitters exerting opposing effects on the neurons: increasing the release probability of the presynaptic neuron while hyperpolarizing the post-synaptic one at a longer time scale. We simulated the joint networks with various levels of astrocyte contributions and neuronal activity levels. Our results indicate that astrocytes prolong the burst duration of neurons, while restricting hyperactivity. Thus, in our model, the effect of astrocytes is homeostatic; the firing rate of the network stabilizes to an intermediate level independently of neuronal base activity. Our computational model highlights the plausible roles of astrocytes in interconnected astrocytic and neuronal networks. Our simulations support recent findings in neurons and astrocytes in vivo and in vitro suggesting that astrocytic networks provide a modulatory role in the bursting of the neuronal network.

Enzymatically crosslinked gelatin-laminin hydrogels for applications in neuromuscular tissue engineering

We report a water-soluble and non-toxic method to incorporate additional extracellular matrix proteins into gelatin hydrogels, while obviating the use of chemical crosslinkers such as glutaraldehyde. Gelatin hydrogels were fabricated using a range of gelatin concentrations (4%-10%) that corresponded to elastic moduli of approximately 1 kPa-25 kPa, respectively, a substrate stiffness relevant for multiple cell types. Microbial transglutaminase was then used to enzymatically crosslink a layer of laminin on top of gelatin hydrogels, resulting in 2-component gelatin-laminin hydrogels. Human induced pluripotent stem cell derived spinal spheroids readily adhered and rapidly extended axons on GEL-LN hydrogels. Axons displayed a more mature morphology and superior electrophysiological properties on GEL-LN hydrogels compared to the controls. Schwann cells on GEL-LN hydrogels adhered and proliferated normally, displayed a healthy morphology, and maintained the expression of Schwann cell specific markers. Lastly, skeletal muscle cells on GEL-LN hydrogels achieved long-term culture for up to 28 days without delamination, while expressing higher levels of terminal genes including myosin heavy chain, MyoD, MuSK, and M-cadherin suggesting enhanced maturation potential and myotube formation compared to the controls. Future studies will employ the superior culture outcomes of this hybrid substrate for engineering functional neuromuscular junctions and related organ on a chip applications.

Functional characterization of human pluripotent stem cell-derived cortical networks differentiated on laminin-521 substrate: comparison to rat cortical cultures

Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived neurons provide exciting opportunities for in vitro modeling of neurological diseases and for advancing drug development and neurotoxicological studies. However, generating electrophysiologically mature neuronal networks from hPSCs has been challenging. Here, we report the differentiation of functionally active hPSC-derived cortical networks on defined laminin-521 substrate. We apply microelectrode array (MEA) measurements to assess network events and compare the activity development of hPSC-derived networks to that of widely used rat embryonic cortical cultures. In both of these networks, activity developed through a similar sequence of stages and time frames; however, the hPSC-derived networks showed unique patterns of bursting activity. The hPSC-derived networks developed synchronous activity, which involved glutamatergic and GABAergic inputs, recapitulating the classical cortical activity also observed in rodent counterparts. Principal component analysis (PCA) based on spike rates, network synchronization and burst features revealed the segregation of hPSC-derived and rat network recordings into different clusters, reflecting the species-specific and maturation state differences between the two networks. Overall, hPSC-derived neural cultures produced with a defined protocol generate cortical type network activity, which validates their applicability as a human-specific model for pharmacological studies and modeling network dysfunctions.

Screening identifies small molecules that enhance the maturation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived myotubes

Targeted differentiation of pluripotent stem (PS) cells into myotubes enables in vitro disease modeling of skeletal muscle diseases. Although various protocols achieve myogenic differentiation in vitro, resulting myotubes typically display an embryonic identity. This is a major hurdle for accurately recapitulating disease phenotypes in vitro, as disease commonly manifests at later stages of development. To address this problem, we identified four factors from a small molecule screen whose combinatorial treatment resulted in myotubes with enhanced maturation, as shown by the expression profile of myosin heavy chain isoforms, as well as the upregulation of genes related with muscle contractile function. These molecular changes were confirmed by global chromatin accessibility and transcriptome studies. Importantly, we also observed this maturation in three-dimensional muscle constructs, which displayed improved in vitro contractile force generation in response to electrical stimulus. Thus, we established a model for in vitro muscle maturation from PS cells.

L-type voltage-gated calcium channel regulation of in vitro human cortical neuronal networks

The combination of in vitro multi-electrode arrays (MEAs) and the neuronal differentiation of stem cells offers the capability to study human neuronal networks from patient or engineered human cell lines. Here, we use MEA-based assays to probe synaptic function and network interactions of hiPSC-derived neurons. Neuronal network behaviour first emerges at approximately 30 days of culture and is driven by glutamate neurotransmission. Over a further 30 days, inhibitory GABAergic signalling shapes network behaviour into a synchronous regular pattern of burst firing activity and low activity periods. Gene mutations in L-type voltage gated calcium channel subunit genes are strongly implicated as genetic risk factors for the development of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. We find that, although basal neuronal firing rate is unaffected, there is a dose-dependent effect of L-type voltage gated calcium channel inhibitors on synchronous firing patterns of our hiPSC-derived neural networks. This demonstrates that MEA assays have sufficient sensitivity to detect changes in patterns of neuronal interaction that may arise from hypo-function of psychiatric risk genes. Our study highlights the utility of in vitro MEA based platforms for the study of hiPSC neural network activity and their potential use in novel compound screening.

Energetic substrate availability regulates synchronous activity in an excitatory neural network

Neural networks are required to meet significant metabolic demands associated with performing sophisticated computational tasks in the brain. The necessity for efficient transmission of information imposes stringent constraints on the metabolic pathways that can be used for energy generation at the synapse, and thus low availability of energetic substrates can reduce the efficacy of synaptic function. Here we study the effects of energetic substrate availability on global neural network behavior and find that glucose alone can sustain excitatory neurotransmission required to generate high-frequency synchronous bursting that emerges in culture. In contrast, obligatory oxidative energetic substrates such as lactate and pyruvate are unable to substitute for glucose, indicating that processes involving glucose metabolism form the primary energy-generating pathways supporting coordinated network activity. Our experimental results are discussed in the context of the role that metabolism plays in supporting the performance of individual synapses, including the relative contributions from postsynaptic responses, astrocytes, and presynaptic vesicle cycling. We propose a simple computational model for our excitatory cultures that accurately captures the inability of metabolically compromised synapses to sustain synchronous bursting when extracellular glucose is depleted.

The Need for Physiological Micro-Nanofluidic Systems of the Brain

In this article, we review brain-on-a-chip models and associated underlying technologies. Micro-nanofluidic systems of the brain can utilize the entire spectrum of organoid technology. Notably, there is an urgent clinical need for a physiologically relevant microfluidic platform that can mimic the brain. Brain diseases affect millions of people worldwide, and this number will grow as the size of elderly population increases, thus making brain disease a serious public health problem. Brain disease modeling typically involves the use of in vivo rodent models, which is time consuming, resource intensive, and arguably unethical because many animals are required for a single study. Moreover, rodent models may not accurately predict human diseases, leading to erroneous results, thus rendering animal models poor predictors of human responses to treatment. Various clinical researchers have highlighted this issue, showing that initial physiological descriptions of animal models rarely encompass all the desired human features, including how closely the model captures what is observed in patients. Consequently, such animal models only mimic certain disease aspects, and they are often inadequate for studying how a certain molecule affects various aspects of a disease. Thus, there is a great need for the development of the brain-on-a-chip technology based on which a human brain model can be engineered by assembling cell lines to generate an organ-level model. To produce such a brain-on-a-chip device, selection of appropriate cells lines is critical because brain tissue consists of many different neuronal subtypes, including a plethora of supporting glial cell types. Additionally, cellular network bio-architecture significantly varies throughout different brain regions, forming complex structures and circuitries; this needs to be accounted for in the chip design process. Compartmentalized microenvironments can also be designed within the microphysiological cell culture system to fulfill advanced requirements of a given application. On-chip integration methods have already enabled advances in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and epilepsy modeling, which are discussed herein. In conclusion, for the brain model to be functional, combining engineered microsystems with stem cell (hiPSC) technology is specifically beneficial because hiPSCs can contribute to the complexity of tissue architecture based on their level of differentiation and thereby, biology itself.

Genetic reprogramming of somatic cells into neuroblasts through a co-induction of the doublecortin gene along the Yamanaka factors: A promising approach to model neuroregenerative disorders

Neural stem cell (NSC) mediated adult neurogenesis represents the regenerative plasticity of the brain. The functionality of the neurogenic process appears to be operated by neuroblasts, the multipotent immature neuronal population of the adult brain. While neuroblasts have been realized to play a major role in synaptic remodeling and immunogenicity, neurodegenerative disorders have been characterized by failure in the terminal differentiation, maturation, integration and survival of newborn neuroblasts. Advancement in understanding the impaired neuroregenerative process along the neuropathological conditions has currently been limited by lack of an appropriate experimental model of neuroblasts. The genetic reprogramming of somatic cells into pluripotent state offers a potential strategy for the experimental modeling of brain disorders. Thus, the induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) based direct reprogramming of somatic cells into neuroblasts would represent a potential tool to understand the regenerative biology of the adult brain. Therefore, this concise article discusses the significance of iPSCs, the functional roles of neuroblasts in the adult brain and provides a research hypothesis for the direct reprogramming of somatic cells into neuroblasts through the co-induction of a potential proneurogenic marker, the doublecortin (DCX) gene along with the Yamanaka factors. The proposed cellular model of adult neurogenesis may provide us with further insights into neuropathogenesis of many neurodegenerative disorders and will provide a potential experimental platform for diagnostic, drug discovery and regenerative therapeutic strategies.

Reduced variability of neural progenitor cells and improved purity of neuronal cultures using magnetic activated cell sorting

Genetic and epigenetic variability between iPSC-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs) combined with differences in investigator technique and selection protocols contributes to variability between NPC lines, which subsequently impacts the quality of differentiated neuronal cultures. We therefore sought to develop an efficient method to reduce this variability in order to improve the purity of NPC and neuronal cultures. Here, we describe a magnetic activated cell sorting (MACS) method for enriching NPC cultures for CD271-/CD133+ cells at both early (<2–3) and late (>10) passage. MACS results in a similar sorting efficiency to fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS), while achieving an increased yield of live cells and reduced cellular stress. Furthermore, neurons derived from MACS NPCs showed greater homogeneity between cell lines compared to those derived from unsorted NPCs. We conclude that MACS is a cheap technique for incorporation into standard NPC differentiation and maintenance protocols in order to improve culture homogeneity and consistency.

Harnessing cellular aging in human stem cell models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a relentlessly progressive neurodegenerative condition that is invariably fatal, usually within 3 to 5 years of diagnosis. The etiology of ALS remains unresolved and no effective treatments exist. There is therefore a desperate and unmet need for discovery of disease mechanisms to guide novel therapeutic strategies. The single major risk factor for ALS is aging, yet the molecular consequences of cell type‐specific aging remain understudied in this context. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have transformed the standard approach of examining human disease, generating unlimited numbers of disease‐relevant cells from patients, enabling analysis of disease mechanisms and drug screening. However, reprogramming patient cells to iPSCs reverses key hallmarks of cellular age. Therefore, although iPSC models recapitulate some disease hallmarks, a crucial challenge is to address the disparity between the advanced age of onset of neurodegenerative diseases and the fetal‐equivalent maturational state of iPSC‐derivatives. Increasing recognition of cell type‐specific aging paradigms underscores the importance of heterogeneity in ultimately tipping the balance from a state of compensated dysfunction (clinically pre‐symptomatic) to decompensation and progression (irreversible loss of neurological functions). In order to realize the true promise of iPSC technology in ALS, efforts need to prioritize faithfully recapitulating the clinical pathophysiological state, with proportionate emphasis on capturing the molecular sequelae of both cellular age and non‐cell‐autonomous disease mechanisms within this context.

Function of Glia in Aging and the Brain Diseases

Microglia cells during aging, neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation show different morphological and transcriptional profiles (related to axonal direction and cell adhesion). Furthermore, expressions of the receptors on the surface and actin formation compared to young are also different. This review delves into the role of glia during aging and the development of the diseases. The susceptibility of different regions of the brain to disease are linked to the overstimulation of signals related to the immune system during aging, as well as the damaging impact of these cascades on the functionality of different populations of microglia present in each region of the brain. Furthermore, a decrease in microglial phagocytosis has been related to many diseases and also has been detected during aging. In this paper we also describe the role of glia in different illness, such as AD, ALS, pain related disorders, cancer, developmental disorders and the problems produced by opening of the blood brain barrier. Future studies will clarify many points planted by this review.

In vitro Models for Seizure-Liability Testing Using Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells

The brain is the most complex organ in the body, controlling our highest functions, as well as regulating myriad processes which incorporate the entire physiological system. The effects of prospective therapeutic entities on the brain and central nervous system (CNS) may potentially cause significant injury, hence, CNS toxicity testing forms part of the “core battery” of safety pharmacology studies. Drug-induced seizure is a major reason for compound attrition during drug development. Currently, the rat ex vivo hippocampal slice assay is the standard option for seizure-liability studies, followed by primary rodent cultures. These models can respond to diverse agents and predict seizure outcome, yet controversy over the relevance, efficacy, and cost of these animal-based methods has led to interest in the development of human-derived models. Existing platforms often utilize rodents, and so lack human receptors and other drug targets, which may produce misleading data, with difficulties in inter-species extrapolation. Current electrophysiological approaches are typically used in a low-throughput capacity and network function may be overlooked. Human-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a promising avenue for neurotoxicity testing, increasingly utilized in drug screening and disease modeling. Furthermore, the combination of iPSC-derived models with functional techniques such as multi-electrode array (MEA) analysis can provide information on neuronal network function, with increased sensitivity to neurotoxic effects which disrupt different pathways. The use of an in vitro human iPSC-derived neural model for neurotoxicity studies, combined with high-throughput techniques such as MEA recordings, could be a suitable addition to existing pre-clinical seizure-liability testing strategies.

Human iPSC-derived neuronal models for in vitro neurotoxicity assessment

Neurotoxicity testing still relies on ethically debated, expensive and time consuming in vivo experiments, which are unsuitable for high-throughput toxicity screening. There is thus a clear need for a rapid in vitro screening strategy that is preferably based on human-derived neurons to circumvent interspecies translation. Recent availability of commercially obtainable human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neurons and astrocytes holds great promise in assisting the transition from the current standard of rat primary cortical cultures to an animal-free alternative. We therefore composed several hiPSC-derived neuronal models with different ratios of excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the presence or absence of astrocytes. Using immunofluorescent stainings and multi-well micro-electrode array (mwMEA) recordings we demonstrate that these models form functional neuronal networks that become spontaneously active. The differences in development of spontaneous neuronal activity and bursting behavior as well as spiking patterns between our models confirm the importance of the presence of astrocytes. Preliminary neurotoxicity assessment demonstrates that these cultures can be modulated with known seizurogenic compounds, such as picrotoxin (PTX) and endosulfan, and the neurotoxicant methylmercury (MeHg). However, the chemical-induced effects on different parameters for neuronal activity, such as mean spike rate (MSR) and mean burst rate (MBR), may depend on the ratio of inhibitory and excitatory neurons. Our results thus indicate that hiPSC-derived neuronal models must be carefully designed and characterized prior to large-scale use in neurotoxicity screening.