18/06/2026
Modeling ALS with iPSC-derived motor neurons, microglia and astrocytes
ALS involves interactions between motor neurons and glial cells, including astrocytes and microglia. To better capture this biology, we developed a human iPSC-derived tri-culture system incorporating motor neurons, astrocytes, and microglia.
Key observations
· Tri-culture provides a more representative in vitro model: motor neurons were co-cultured with astrocytes and microglia to establish a more physiologically relevant system
· Glial cells modulate neuronal activity: the addition of astrocytes and microglia alters firing frequency and synchronisation of motor neurons
· Microglia in the tri-culture system: incorporation of microglia as part of the tri-culture enables investigation of neuroinflammatory contributions within a multicellular environment
· Timing of glial integration impacts network behavior: earlier addition of astrocytes and microglia results in earlier increases in burst amplitude, indicating temporal effects on neuronal maturation
· ALS-associated phenotypes: iPSC-derived motor neurons from ALS donors show increased burst rate and reduced synchronisation, consistent with a hyperexcitable phenotype
This work highlights the importance of studying motor neurons alongside astrocytes and microglia in tri-culture systems to better reflect ALS-relevant cellular interactions.
Download the poster: https://hubs.la/Q04lRwgp0
Explore our iPSC-derived microglia: https://hubs.la/Q04lRRSJ0
