655-Spatial Atlas of the Human Suprachiasmatic Nucleus

This research presents a spatial and single-cell transcriptomic atlas of the adult human suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the brain's primary circadian pacemaker. By utilizing advanced imaging and sequencing, researchers identified seven distinct neuron subtypes with unique genetic signatures and spatial arrangements within this small hypothalamic region. A cross-species comparison with rodents and non-human primates reveals a conserved regulatory axis involving the genes LHX1 and RORB that organizes SCN function. The data highlights that while core clock mechanisms are preserved, the human SCN has undergone a significant reorganization of neuropeptide signaling compared to other species. Finally, the study links AVP/NMS neurons to the genetic basis for morningness chronotypes, offering a cellular explanation for individual differences in human sleep-wake preferences. This comprehensive atlas serves as a foundational resource for understanding the neural and molecular mechanisms of the human biological clock.References: Yang Q, Wang H, Gao L, et al. Spatial and single-cell transcriptomic atlas of human suprachiasmatic nucleus[J]. Neuron, 2026.前往小宇宙评论区与主播互动