Organoids - the phenomenon of complex organ-like structures cultivation in vitro

Pluripotent embryonal stem cells (ESCs) are unique for their ability to proliferate and differentiate into almost all cell types. In the presence of appropriate stimuli, they are able to initiate morphogenesis in vitro. Stem cells are able to differentiate into specific cell lines of a given tissue and to arrange three- dimensional (3D) structures. These so-called organoids are formed in a self-organizing process that mimics normal ESCs development. Organ development is a complex process that requires temporally and spatially ordered regulatory signals. 3D organization of these structures allows important cell-cell interactions. Organoid cultures are thus the area of a huge potential. Organoids are accessible to all standard experimental manipulations. They are therefore an ideal tool for the research of stem cells, signaling pathways, organogenesis and disease modeling. Finally, they may open up new avenues for regenerative medicine and gene therapy. Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org