Mohammed R. Shaker

Single-cell analysis of West Nile virus infection in brain organoids identified a serine synthesis enzyme as a determinant of viral neural tropism and a druggable antiviral target

This study uses human cerebral organoids to identify PHGDH as a key metabolic factor enabling WNV infection and a potential drug target.

Oligodendrocyte Enriched Brain Organoids Reveal Impaired Oligodendroglial Maturation and Altered Neural Network Activity in Down Syndrome

This study uses brain organoids to show trisomy 21 impairs oligodendrocyte maturation and neural network function in Down syndrome.

SARS-CoV-2 infection in hiPSC-derived neurons is cathepsin-dependent and causes accumulation of HIF1alpha and phosphorylated tau

This study shows SARS-CoV-2 infects hiPSC-derived neurons via endosomal-lysosomal pathway dependent on cathepsins, leading to HIF1alpha accumulation and phosphorylated tau, suggesting neurodegenerative effects.

Choroid plexus defects in Down syndrome brain organoids enhance neurotropism of SARS-CoV-2

This study shows that Down syndrome brain organoids with choroid plexus defects enhance SARS-CoV-2 neurotropism, which can be inhibited by targeting TMPRSS2 and Furin.

Rapamycin mitigates Valproic Acid-induced teratogenicity in human and animal models by suppressing AP-1-mediated senescence

This study shows that rapamycin reduces VPA-induced teratogenic effects by suppressing AP-1-mediated senescence in human and zebrafish models.

Spatiotemporal contribution of neuromesodermal progenitor-derived neural cells in the elongation of developing mouse spinal cord

Self-Organizing 3D Human Choroid Plexus-Ventricle-Cortical Organoids

This paper describes the development of 3D human organoids that simultaneously generate choroid plexus and cortical cells, recapitulating key features of forebrain development.