Researchers create mature neurons from human cells, opening new possibilities for treatments

Northwestern University researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of medical research by creating the first highly mature neurons from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The achievement opens up new opportunities for potential transplantation therapies for neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic injuries.

Previous attempts to differentiate stem cells into neurons have resulted in functionally immature neurons resembling those from embryonic or early postnatal stages. However, the limited maturation obtained with current stem cell culture techniques has hindered their potential for neurodegeneration studies.

The study, published in the journal Cell Stem Cell, details how the team used a revolutionary technique known as “dancing molecules” to create the mature neurons. The method, introduced by Northwestern Professor Samuel I. Stupp in late 2021, involved differentiating human iPSCs into motor and cortical neurons and placing them on coatings of synthetic nanofibers containing the rapidly moving dancing molecules.

“When you have an iPSC that you manage to turn into a neuron, it’s going to be a young neuron,” said Stupp, co-corresponding author of the study. “But, in order for it to be useful in a therapeutic sense, you need a mature neuron. Otherwise, it is like asking a baby to carry out a function that requires an adult human being. We have confirmed that neurons coated with our nanofibers achieve more maturity than other methods, and mature neurons are better able to establish the synaptic connections that are fundamental to neuronal function.”

Not only were the enriched neurons more mature, but they also displayed enhanced signaling capabilities and greater branching ability, which is crucial for neurons to make synaptic contact with one another. Additionally, unlike typical stem cell-derived neurons which tend to clump together, these neurons did not aggregate, making them easier to maintain.

With further development, the researchers believe these mature neurons could be transplanted into patients as a promising therapy for spinal cord injuries as well as neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Learn more in Northwestern Now’s article, “Mature ‘lab grown’ neurons hold promise for neurodegenerative disease.”