Bulk RNA Seq of Electrically Stimulated Retinal Organoids

Considering the significant role played by both intrinsic and extrinsic electric fields in the growth and maturation of the central nervous system, the impact of short exposure to external electric fields on the development and differentiation of retinal organoids was investigated.Organoids derived from human embryonic stem cells at day 80, a critical time point in their differentiation and maturation, were used. A single 60-minute exposure to a distinct biphasic electrical field influenced neuronal development and increased the population of photoreceptors. Initial immunohistochemistry and qPCR studies confirmed the influence of electrical stimulation on the development and differentiation of various RO cell types. RNA sequencing data revealed elevated expression of rod photoreceptors, Müller cells, horizontal cells, and amacrine cells, alongside the downregulation of retinal pigment epithelium and retinal ganglion cell genes.Furthermore, our study demonstrated varying degrees of organoid development and maturation depending on the specific electrical field applied. These findings highlight the significant impact of extrinsic electrical fields on early retinal development and suggest that optimizing electrical field parameters could effectively address certain limitations in retinal organoid technology, potentially reducing the reliance on chemicals and small molecules.