The Lifesciences Magazine

Using human foetal brain tissue , scientists have created 3D mini-organs that self-organize in an artificial environment. These culture-grown organoids provide an entirely new avenue for investigating brain development. They also provide a useful tool for researching the genesis and management of conditions involving the development of the brain, such as brain tumours. To simulate the biology of disease and healthy tissue in the lab, scientists employ a variety of techniques. These consist of lab animals, cell lines, and, as of late, 3D mini-organs. These so-called organoids possess traits and a degree of complexity that enable scientists to simulate an organ’s operations in great detail in the lab. foetal brain tissue cells can be used directly to create organoids. Additionally, stem cells—which can be found in some adult tissues or in embryos—can be “guided” by scientists to develop into the organ of their choice. Up until recently, embryonic or pluripotent stem cells were coaxed int...