Cell models for Down syndrome-Alzheimer’s disease research

Generation of two induced pluripotent stem cell lines from patients with Down syndrome

Down syndrome (DS) is caused by trisomy of Homo sapiens chromosome 21 (HSA21) and is by far the most common chromosomal disorder accompanied by neurodevelopmental disorders and congenital heart disease. Here, we generated two induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines from two patients with DS. These two lines exhibited normal morphology, trisomy 21 karyotype, pluripotency and differentiation capability into derivatives of three germ layers. The patient-specific iPSC lines arean invaluable resource in research to model DS-related cellular and molecular pathologies and test possible therapeutic strategies for DS.

Introducing a new themed collection on emerging technologies for research models of human neuronal disorders in vivo and in vitro

This themed collection of articles was prompted by a collaboration between Neuronal Signaling and the British Neuroscience Association. The Biochemical Society and Portland Press organised a symposium at the BNA Festival of Neuroscience in 2021, focused on the development and use of experimental models of human neuronal disorders. One aspect dealt with how new technologies are being (or could be) used both as a substitute for, or to complement, research that uses whole animal models. Another aspect discussed factors that need to be considered when appraising the validity of animal models of complex, multifactorial neuronal disorders. Given its relevance to the scope of Neuronal Signaling, the journal’s Editorial Board developed a themed collection of content around this symposium entitled Emerging technologies for research models of human neuronal disorders in vivo and in vitro.

We were delighted that speakers from the symposium and other experts working in this field agreed to submit reviews for the collection, which offers an invaluable resource both for researchers who are already experts in this field and those who need merely to learn about its scope and potential.