Modelling human hypothalamic development in a dish

Dr. Elena Bochukova (primary)
School of Medicine and Dentistry
Queen Mary University of London
Dr Robert Lowe (secondary)
School of Medicine and Dentistry
Queen Mary University of London

Abstract

Within the brain, the hypothalamus coordinates multiple aspects of metabolism, including body weight homeostasis, growth, reproduction, and aging. Consequently, its dysfunction underlies multiple pathological conditions including obesity. As access to human brain is limited, developing representative systems in vitro is a key avenue to study hypothalamic function in health and disease. Here we propose to establish a cutting-edge 2D and 3D organoid stem cell-derived hypothalamic neuronal systems, and apply them to study the master regulator of hypothalamic development, Orthopedia (OTP), and through cross-disciplinary stem cell and genomics technologies approach identify its targets and function in hypothalamic development.


References

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3. Bochukova EG, Moir L, Dumbell R, Banks G, Bains RS, Nolan P et al. Disruption of the
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BBSRC Area
Genes, development and STEM* approaches to biology
Area of Biology
GeneticsNeurobiology
Techniques & Approaches
GeneticsMolecular Biology