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Induction of deep layer cortical neurons in vitro
A P Bohner1, R M Akers, S K McConnell
1Department of Biological Sciences, Stanford University, California 94305, USA.
Development (Cambridge, England)
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Short-range environmental cues, not cell division timing, dictate deep layer neuron specification in the cerebral cortex. These signals guide multipotent progenitors to form specific neuronal layers.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Neuronal fate in the cerebral cortex is thought to be determined by environmental signals preceding cell division.
- In ferrets, E29 progenitor cells typically generate layer 5 and 6 neurons.
- Transplantation studies show altered neuronal migration based on cell cycle stage and environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the nature of environmental signals influencing laminar specification of cerebral cortical neurons.
- To determine if cell contact or short-range cues are necessary for deep layer specification.
Main Methods:
- Utilized three distinct culture systems: low-density culture, aggregated cell pellets, and explants maintaining cerebral wall architecture.
- Transplanted E29 progenitor cells at different stages and culture conditions.
- Observed neuronal fate and migration patterns post-transplantation.
Main Results:
- E29 cells cultured at low density failed to specify normal deep-layer fates, migrating to upper layers.
- Restoring cell contact by pelleting E29 cells promoted specification to normal deep-layer fates.
- Culturing cells in explants that preserved cerebral wall architecture allowed normal deep-layer specification.
Conclusions:
- Short-range environmental cues, rather than cell cycle timing alone, are crucial for inducing deep layer neuron production.
- Cell contact and intact tissue architecture appear necessary for proper laminar specification.
- Multipotent progenitors require specific short-range signals to differentiate into deep layer neurons.