Bulk RNA-seq of primary mouse neural progenitor cells derived from the embryonic neocortex or medial ganglionic eminence at different time points after exposure to ionizing radiation

Embryonic DNA damage, e.g. resulting from exposure to moderate and high doses of ionizing radiation, has important consequences on the normal neurodevelopment, often resulting in microcephaly that can be associated with seizures. The effects of prenatal radiation exposure have previously been investigated with a focus on the neocortex, which is the birthplace of excitatory neurons. The possible effects on interneurons and specifically their progenitors are currently unknown. Here, we generated primary neural progenitor cell (NPC) cultures from the neocortex (NCX) and the medial ganglionic eminences (MGE), the origin of the majority of interneurons, of embryonic day 13 mice. Cells were irradiated with a dose of 0 Gy (sham) or 1 Gy and RNA was extracted at 6 h and 24 h following exposure, and subsequently used for RNA-sequencing (PE150).