Modelling co-development between the somites and neural tube in human trunk-like structures

Area of Science:

• Developmental Biology
• Stem Cell Research
• Human Embryogenesis

Background:

• Human stem cell-based embryo models offer in vitro systems for developmental research.
• Multi-lineage differentiation is crucial for studying tissue co-development in these models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop human trunk-like structures with organized somites and neural tubes.
• To investigate the role of endogenous and exogenous signaling in human trunk development.
• To compare these structures with human embryo datasets for developmental stage approximation.

Main Methods:

• Development of self-organizing human trunk-like structures from stem cells.
• Transcriptomic comparison with human embryo datasets.
• Manipulation of Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway.
• Analysis of reciprocal signaling between neural tube and somites.

Main Results:

• Human trunk-like structures exhibit organized somites and neural tubes, resembling Carnegie stages 13-14.
• Absence of notochord leads to dorsal identity, while Sonic Hedgehog signaling induces ventralization.
• Reciprocal signaling identified: neural tube cues induce ALDH1A2 in somites, which produce retinoic acid for neural tube patterning.

Conclusions:

• Modularity in embryo models is valuable for exploring human trunk co-development.
• The developed model provides insights into the self-organized signaling mechanisms governing early human trunk development.
• This system facilitates the study of developmental processes and potential therapeutic interventions.