In this compelling episode, we are joined by Dr. Muotri, a leading researcher investigating the intriguing dynamics of cortical organoid development. One of the mysteries of early brain maturation is whether functional network activity follows a fixed developmental program governed by genetics, similar to structural and transcriptional changes.

Dr. Muotri's research harnesses human cortical organoids that dynamically change cellular populations as they mature. Over several months, these organoids consistently display increases in electrical activity. Intriguingly, the spontaneous formation of these networks features regular oscillatory events that rely on both glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling. As the organoids continue to develop, these oscillations transition to more spatially and temporally irregular patterns. Remarkably, these sync ...