Exploring Cortical Organoid Development and Network Activity: A Deep Dive with Dr. Muotri

In this compelling episode, we are joined by Dr. Muotri, a leading researcher investigating the intriguing dynamics of cortical organoid development. One of the mysteries of early brain maturation is whether functional network activity follows a fixed developmental program governed by genetics, similar to structural and transcriptional changes. Dr. Muotri's research harnesses human cortical organoids that dynamically change cellular populations as they mature. Over several months, these organoids consistently display increases in electrical activity. Intriguingly, the spontaneous formation of these networks features regular oscillatory events that rely on both glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling. As the organoids continue to develop, these oscillations transition to more spatially and temporally irregular patterns. Remarkably, these synchronous network events mirror features seen in preterm human electroencephalography. These findings suggest that the development of structured network activity in a human neocortex model may follow a stable genetic program. In our conversation, Dr. Muotri sheds light on these fascinating insights, providing new perspectives on the role of network activity in the developing human cortex and paving the way for future explorations in neuroscience.Keywords: Dr. Muotri, Cortical Organoids, Network Activity, Brain Development, Genetics, Glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling, Electroencephalography, Neuroscience.Complex Oscillatory Waves Emerging from Cortical Organoids Model Early Human Brain Network Development https://doi.org/10.1016/j.stem.2019.08.002