Generating inhibitory neuron diversity through morphogenic patterning: From in vivo studies to new in vitro models.

The proper functioning of the central nervous system depends on the cooperation of distinct neuronal subtypes generated during development. Here, we review new insights provided by recent research and technological advances into the mechanisms underlying the generation of the remarkable diversity of inhibitory GABAergic neurons (INs). INs are generated in the ventral telencephalon or subpallium and migrate long distances to populate multiple brain regions.

Repurposing of the multiciliation gene regulatory network in fate specification of Cajal-Retzius neurons.

Cajal-Retzius cells (CRs) are key players in cerebral cortex development, and they display a unique transcriptomic identity. Here, we use scRNA-seq to reconstruct the differentiation trajectory of mouse hem-derived CRs, and we unravel the transient expression of a complete gene module previously known to control multiciliogenesis. However, CRs do not undergo centriole amplification or multiciliation.

Establishing Hedgehog Gradients during Neural Development.

A morphogen is a signaling molecule that induces specific cellular responses depending on its local concentration. The concept of morphogenic gradients has been a central paradigm of developmental biology for decades. Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) is one of the most important morphogens that displays pleiotropic functions during embryonic development, ranging from neuronal patterning to axon guidance.