An atlas of transcription initiation reveals regulatory principles of gene and transposable element expression in early mammalian development.

Transcriptional activation of the embryonic genome (EGA) is a major developmental landmark enabling the embryo to become independent from maternal control. The magnitude and control of transcriptional reprogramming during this event across mammals remains poorly understood. Here, we developed Smart-seq+5' for high sensitivity, full-length transcript coverage and simultaneous capture of 5' transcript information from single cells and single embryos.

Rhesus macaque as a model for sex-biased neurological diseases.

Sexual dimorphism, differences between males and females of the same species, is widespread in mammals. However, good animal models to study human sexually dimorphic phenotypes are currently lacking. In this issue, DeCasien et al.

The Virtual Child.

We are building the world's first Virtual Child-a computer model of normal and cancerous human development at the level of each individual cell. The Virtual Child will "develop cancer" that we will subject to unlimited virtual clinical trials that pinpoint, predict, and prioritize potential new treatments, bringing forward the day when no child dies of cancer, giving each one the opportunity to lead a full and healthy life.

Cellular development and evolution of the mammalian cerebellum.

The expansion of the neocortex, a hallmark of mammalian evolution, was accompanied by an increase in cerebellar neuron numbers. However, little is known about the evolution of the cellular programmes underlying the development of the cerebellum in mammals. In this study we generated single-nucleus RNA-sequencing data for around 400,000 cells to trace the development of the cerebellum from early neurogenesis to adulthood in human, mouse and the marsupial opossum.