Method for production of uniform GABAergic neurons from stem cells
The University of Aberdeen has developed a novel protocol to produce homogeneous GABAergic neurons from mouse embryonic stem cells. This technology will find applications in drug screening and may have therapeutiic potential.
Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory meurotransmitter in the CNS and a decrease in GABAergic neurotransmission is associated with many severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, schizophrenia, Huntington’s disease.
GABAergic drugs have been used clinically to facilitate GABA transmission through modulation of GABAA receptors. However, the supply of GABA depends on local GABAergic neurons since GABA cannot be transported efficiently across the blood-brain barrier.
An ability to generate a homogeneous population of GABAergic neurons would help to develop cell replacement therapy for a number of neurological conditions, and would provide a screen for drugs that modulate GABA production.
Key Benefits
- Homogeneous GABAergic neurons from a simple and short protocol
- Production of immature GABAergic neurons suggests better clinical transplantation potential
- Protocol produces post-mitotic neurons which lack proliferation potential
Applications
- Production of homogeneous GABAergic neurons from mouse embryonic stem cells
- Screening for drugs that modulate GABA production
- Potential to translate to human embryonic stem cells
IP Status
A UK priority application has been filed by the University of Aberdeen.
The University of Aberdeen would like to hear from companies wishing to license this technology or collaborate in its future development.
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