Transcriptomic and metabolic signatures of neural cells cultured under a physiologic-like environment.

Cultured brain cells are used conventionally to investigate fundamental neurobiology and identify therapeutic targets against neural diseases. However, standard culture conditions do not simulate the natural cell microenvironment, thus hampering in vivo translational insight. Major weaknesses include atmospheric (21%) O tension and lack of intercellular communication, the two factors likely impacting metabolism and signaling.