Scientists used single-cell omics techniques to reveal key gene regulatory networks that guide the development and maturation of the prefrontal cortex

Chinese summary

Human brain development is based on cellular and molecular restructuring
that lasts from birth to the third decade of life.
To uncover cell dynamics that coordinate neurodevelopmental maturation, the researchers analyzed the availability of gene expression and chromatin in the human prefrontal cortex at single-cell resolution from pregnancy to
adulthood.
Their comprehensive analysis defined the dynamic trajectories of each cell type, revealed the major recombinant components of gene expression that transitioned from prenatal to postnatal across all cell types and continued into adulthood, and they also identified regulatory networks
that guide cell development, activity, and function.
They revealed links between expression dynamics and developmental milestones, defined different times when cells acquired an adult-like state, and identified molecular convergence
from different developmental origins.
In addition, they further revealed cell dynamics and their regulators involved in neurological disorders
.
Finally, using this reference, they identified cell identity and maturation status in organoid models
.
In conclusion, their study captures the dynamic regulatory map of human cortical development
.

Summary in English

Human brain development is underpinned by cellular and molecular reconfigurations continuing into the third decade of life.
To reveal cell dynamics orchestrating neural maturation, we profiled human prefrontal cortex gene expression and chromatin accessibility at single-cell resolution from gestation to adulthood.
Integrative analyses define the dynamic trajectories of each cell type, revealing major gene expression reconfiguration at the prenatal-to-postnatal transition in all cell types followed by continuous reconfiguration into adulthood and identifying regulatory networks guiding cellular developmental programs, states, and functions.
We uncover links between expression dynamics and developmental milestones, characterize the perse timing of when cells acquire adult-like states, and identify molecular convergence from distinct developmental origins.
We further reveal cellular dynamics and their regulators implicated in neurological disorders.
Finally, using this reference, we benchmark cell identities and maturation states in organoid models.
Together, this captures the dynamic regulatory landscape of human cortical development.