Characterization of simplified brain organoids (simBOs) derived from primitive neural stem cells (pNSCs). Characterization of simplified brain organoids (simBOs) derived from primitive neural stem cells (pNSCs)

We established simplified brain organoids (simBOs), composed of mature neurons and astrocytes from expandable hPSC-derived primitive neural stem cells (pNSCs) that can be rapidly generated in 2 weeks and have more homogeneous properties. Transcriptome analysis revealed that three-dimensional (3D) differentiation facilitates the conversion of pNSCs to mature neuronal systems compared to a two-dimensional environment in the context of neurotransmitter release, synaptic vesicle formation, ion channels, calcium signaling, axonal guidance, extracellular matrix organization, and cell cycle. This was correlated with the translocation of YAP1 into the cytoplasm by sensing matrix stiffness on the 3D models. Overall design: Comparions between pNSCs and simBOs or 2D differentiation and simBOs (3D)