Project description:Neuronal cell types are classically defined by their molecular properties, anatomy, and functions. While recent advances in single-cell genomics have led to high-resolution molecular characterization of cell type diversity in the brain, neuronal cell types are often studied out of the context of their anatomical properties. To better understand the relationship between molecular and anatomical features defining cortical neurons, we developed Epi-Retro-Seq, a method that combined retrograde labeling with single-nucleus DNA methylation sequencing to link epigenomic properties of cell types to neuronal projections. We profiled 16,971 single neocortical neurons from 63 cortico-cortical and cortico-subcortical long-distance projections. Our results revealed unique epigenetic signatures of projection neurons that correspond to their laminar and regional location and projection patterns. The methylomes of 16,971 mouse neocortical neurons from 63 cortico-cortical (CC) and cortico-subcortical long-distance projections were analyzed using Epi-Retro-Seq, a method that combined retrograde tracing and single nucleus methylome sequencing.
Project description:Determination of the molecular properties of genetically targeted cell types has led to fundamental insights into mouse brain function and dysfunction. Here, we report an efficient strategy for precise exploration of gene expression events in specific cell types in a broad range of species. We demonstrate that classically defined, homologous neuronal and glial cell types differ between rodent and human by the expression of hundreds of orthologous, cell specific genes. Confirmation that these genes are differentially active was obtained using epigenetic mapping, quantitative PCR, and immunofluorescence localization. Studies of sixteen human postmortem brains revealed cell-specific molecular responses to aging, and the induction of a shared, robust response to an unknown external event experienced by three donors. Our data establish a comprehensive approach for analysis of unique molecular events associated with specific circuits and cell types in a wide variety of human conditions.
Project description:Determination of the molecular properties of genetically targeted cell types has led to fundamental insights into mouse brain function and dysfunction. Here, we report an efficient strategy for precise exploration of gene expression events in specific cell types in a broad range of species. We demonstrate that classically defined, homologous neuronal and glial cell types differ between rodent and human by the expression of hundreds of orthologous, cell specific genes. Confirmation that these genes are differentially active was obtained using epigenetic mapping, quantitative PCR, and immunofluorescence localization. Studies of sixteen human postmortem brains revealed cell-specific molecular responses to aging, and the induction of a shared, robust response to an unknown external event experienced by three donors. Our data establish a comprehensive approach for analysis of unique molecular events associated with specific circuits and cell types in a wide variety of human conditions.
Project description:Determination of the molecular properties of genetically targeted cell types has led to fundamental insights into mouse brain function and dysfunction. Here, we report an efficient strategy for precise exploration of gene expression events in specific cell types in a broad range of species. We demonstrate that classically defined, homologous neuronal and glial cell types differ between rodent and human by the expression of hundreds of orthologous, cell specific genes. Confirmation that these genes are differentially active was obtained using epigenetic mapping, quantitative PCR, and immunofluorescence localization. Studies of sixteen human postmortem brains revealed cell-specific molecular responses to aging, and the induction of a shared, robust response to an unknown external event experienced by three donors. Our data establish a comprehensive approach for analysis of unique molecular events associated with specific circuits and cell types in a wide variety of human conditions.