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Spatially Resolved Lipid Composition of the Human Brain Cortical Layers
Dmitry Senko1, Marina Zavolskova2, Olga Efimova2
1Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, 121205, Russia. dmitry.senko@skoltech.ru.
Neuroscience Bulletin
|August 29, 2025
Summary
This study reveals distinct lipidome patterns across human neocortical layers, highlighting how lipid properties influence brain architecture. These findings advance our understanding of the brain
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Understanding neocortical architecture is crucial for elucidating brain function.
- Lipidome composition plays a significant role in cellular structure and function within the brain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the lipidome composition across different layers of the human neocortex.
- To investigate the relationship between lipid biochemical properties and their distribution in neocortical layers.
Main Methods:
- Laser-capture microdissection was employed to isolate specific neocortical layers (L1, L3, L5).
- Mass spectrometry (MS) and mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) were utilized for lipidome analysis.
- Spatial transcriptomics data was integrated to assign lipids to specific cell types.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in abundance were observed for three-quarters of the 312 detected lipids across neocortical layers.
- Lipid distribution patterns were influenced by biochemical class, fatty acid residue length, and unsaturation.
- MSI data enabled the reconstruction of spatial lipid distribution patterns within neocortical layers.
Conclusions:
- A complex interplay exists between lipid biochemical properties and neocortical histological features.
- The study establishes a foundation for further research into the lipidome architecture of the human brain.
- Distinct lipidome patterns across neocortical layers provide insights into regional brain function.
