In this presentation, Nan Yang will: - Introduce lineage conversion, a few principles on identifying transcription factors for different neuronal subtypes, and the application of the method. - Describe detailed procedure of generating induced neuronal cells from human iPS cells and create neuron & astroglia co-cultures. - Share troubleshooting tips for common problems.

In this presentation, Gabriele Ciceri will introduce experimental strategies to generate neurons from human pluripotent stem cells via directed differentiation. Specifically, Ciceri will: - Describe general principles of neuronal specification in vivo and their application to in vitro differentiation protocols. - Introduce how to mimic development in a dish. - Introduce paradigms for neural induction (PNS vs. CNS). - Describe specification of regional identity through integration of multiple patterning signals and generation of specific neuron type. - Explain how to control for lineage progression. - Describe validation of directed differentiations.

The resources below were selected by Patrick Rothwell, Stephanie Craigg, and Yevgenia Kozorovitsky, faculty from Module 3 of SfN’s Optogenetics Training Series. These resources supplement their presentations, Optogenetic Applications in Acute Brain Slices and Nuts and Bolts of Ex Vivo Optogenetics Experiments. Use these resources to better understand appropriate applications and key concepts of designing and interpreting optogenetic experiments using ex vivo preparations.