BRAIN Initiative Releases Single-Cell Transcriptomic and Epigenomic Dataset

The BRAIN Initiative® Cell Atlas Network (BICAN) has released its first major dataset, marking a significant milestone in its quest to map the whole human brain. This comprehensive collection includes single-cell and single-nucleus transcriptomic and epigenomic profiles from humans, mice, and ten other mammalian species, aimed at identifying and defining brain cell types based on molecular profiles.

The data, now accessible through the BICAN Rapid Release Inventory, represents a collaborative effort across multiple grants and laboratories within the consortium, including the Allen Institute.

Carol Thompson from the Allen Institute emphasized the ongoing nature of this data release, stating, "The tap is open, the data is flowing, and more is on the way. The hope is that if we can encourage data reuse and sharing by multiple labs, we can maximize the value of these datasets and really amplify the public investment into research.”

The project builds upon previous NIH BRAIN Initiative-funded research, which mapped cells in the mouse brain and parts of the human brain.

“By bringing together experts across multiple specialties, the BICAN project is a model of open science,” said John Ngai, director of the NIH BRAIN Initiative. “The availability of this rapidly growing treasure trove of data will enable researchers around the world to propel the field toward a deeper understanding of the human brain in both health and disease, ultimately paving the way to more precise treatments and cures for devastating brain disorders.”