Current Development of iPSC-Based Modeling in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Abstract

Over the past two decades, significant advancements have been made in the induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology. These developments have enabled the broader application of iPSCs in neuroscience, improved our understanding of disease pathogenesis, and advanced the investigation of therapeutic targets and methods. Specifically, optimizations in reprogramming protocols, coupled with improved neuronal differentiation and maturation techniques, have greatly facilitated the generation of iPSC-derived neural cells. The integration of the cerebral organoid technology and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing has further propelled the application of iPSCs in neurodegenerative diseases to a new stage. Patient-derived or CRISPR-edited cerebral neurons and organoids now serve as ideal disease models, contributing to our understanding of disease pathophysiology and identifying novel therapeutic targets and candidates. In this review, we examine the development of iPSC-based models in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease.

Keywords: astrocyte; brain organoid; iPS cell; microglia; neural stem cell; neurodegenerative disease; neuron; oligodendrocyte; reprogramming factor.

Figure 1

In addition to fibroblasts, PBMCs, and NSCs, a wide range of somatic cell sources can be reprogrammed in vitro using methods such as OSKM or chemical cocktails to establish iPSCs. These iPSCs can then be further differentiated into various neurons and organoids, which are widely utilized as disease models in the study of neurodegenerative disorders.