Protocol for 3D direct reprogramming of human glia into dopaminergic neurons with gene expression and immunocytochemistry validation

Direct reprogramming of somatic cells into neurons offers a promising strategy for studying neurological disorders and developing cell-based therapies. This protocol describes the 3D direct reprogramming of human glial progenitor cells into dopaminergic neurons. It includes spheroid formation, lentiviral transduction, neuronal induction using doxycycline, and validation via gene expression and immunocytochemistry. This versatile approach enables efficient reprogramming of human cells into dopaminergic neurons. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Giacomoni et al.¹.