Small molecule screen reveals pathways that regulate C4 secretion in stem-cell derived astrocytes.
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ABSTRACT: In the brain, the complement system plays a crucial role in the immune response and in synaptic elimination during normal development and disease. Here, we sought to identify pathways that modulate the production of complement component 4 (C4), recently associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia. To design a disease-relevant assay, we first developed a rapid and robust 3D protocol capable of producing large numbers of astrocytes from pluripotent cells. Transcriptional profiling of these astrocytes confirmed the homogeneity of this population of dorsal fetal-like astrocytes. Using a novel ELISA-based small molecule screen, we identified epigenetic regulators, as well as inhibitors of intracellular signaling pathways, able to modulate C4 secretion from astrocytes. We then built a Connectivity Map to predict and validate additional key regulatory pathways, including one involving c-Jun-kinase (JNK). This work provides a foundation for developing therapies for CNS diseases involving the complement cascade.
ORGANISM(S): Homo sapiens
PROVIDER: GSE213352 | GEO | 2022/09/17
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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