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Neural Precursor Cells Expanded Inside the 3D Micro-Scaffold Nichoid Present Different Non-Coding RNAs Profiles and
Letizia Messa1, Bianca Barzaghini1, Federica Rey2,3
1Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, 20157 Milan, Italy.
Biomedicines
|September 28, 2021
Summary
Non-coding RNAs are crucial in stem cell biology. This study reveals how a 3D scaffold (Nichoid) influences neural precursor cells, impacting gene expression related to cell growth and mechanical responses.
Area of Science:
- Stem cell biology
- Non-coding RNA research
- Tissue engineering
Background:
- Non-coding RNAs play significant roles in biological and pathological processes.
- Understanding non-coding RNA functions in stem cell biology remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the transcriptional dysregulation of non-coding genes in murine neural precursor cells cultured in a 3D micro-scaffold (Nichoid) compared to standard conditions.
- To identify the role of non-coding RNAs in cellular responses to the 3D micro-environment.
Main Methods:
- RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) to identify 357 non-coding genes.
- Weighted co-expression network analysis and functional enrichment.
- Computational characterization of non-coding RNAs with human homologues.
- Isoform switching analysis.
Main Results:
- Non-coding RNAs significantly alter the expression of coding genes involved in mechanotransduction, stemness, and neural differentiation.
- The 3D Nichoid scaffold influences the biological and genetic response of neural precursor cells.
- Non-coding RNAs are implicated in cellular responses to mechanical stimuli.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a detailed analysis of the 3D Nichoid scaffold's impact on neural precursor cells.
- Findings suggest a role for non-coding RNAs in 3D cell growth and response to mechanical cues.
