This project aimed to study temporal and post-transcriptional gene expression during the development of the human cerebral cortex, which is a highly elaborate process occurring over several months. Studies using mouse model systems, human fetal samples as well as brain organoids have revealed elaborate gene regulatory networks that orchestrate mammalian corticogenesis. However, an emerging theme from mouse studies highlights additional roles of post-transcriptional gene regulatory mechanisms. Whether similar mechanisms play a role in human neurodevelopment remains elusive. Fully understanding gene regulation during human brain development is of critical importance to understand the causes of neurodevelopment disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or intellectual developmental disorder as there are currently no known cures available.
Hence, the overall objective was to investigate the post-transcriptional control of gene expression and protein abundance to comprehensively understand gene regulation during human brain neurodevelopment.