Abstract: Midbrain dopaminergic neuronal precursor cells that can be used to treat a brain disorder are provided herein. Improved mono-SMAD methods are provided that can be used to differentiate pluripotent cells into midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons or midbrain neuronal precursors. In some aspects, methods are provided for mono-SMAD culture protocols and culture durations that can be used to generate dopaminergic neuronal precursor cells that have significantly improved properties for the treatment of a brain disorder such as, e.g., Parkinson's disease. Methods of treating Parkinson's disease and other brain diseases with the midbrain dopaminergic neuronal precursor cells are also provided.

Abstract: Provided for herein is a method of cell transplantation using an injection attachment having a hub containing a plurality of cells and a cannula extending from a distal end of the hub. The method includes orienting the injection attachment such that the cannula points downwardly until the plurality of cells settle together proximate the distal end, inserting the cannula into a tissue of a subject, and injecting the volume of cells into the tissue of the subject using the injection attachment.