Figure 2.

hiPSC NMP-trunk specification and neural ribbons. (A) The anterior–posterior neuraxis in the human embryo is specified from NSCs that generate brain neurons or NMP-derived cells that form the trunk and spine, directing somites and neural crest cells (NCCs) for CNS–PNS integration. (B) Application of NMPs to achieve trunk regionally matched CNS, PNS, and mesodermal lineage cells is showing promise in transplantation circuitry. Grafted NMP-derived regionally matched spinal motor neurons and support cells in neural ribbons as preformed synaptically connected networks facilitates host–graft interactions and neural circuitry integration, as alginate-based encapsulation provides temporary support for networks before dissolution. Advantages of neural ribbon circuitry and prospective assisting technologies for improved clinical translation.