Organoids are 3D cell culture systems derived from stem cells that recapitulate the cell composition and features of early tissue organization. They can be used to study physiological and pathological processes during development, homeostasis, regeneration, or disease. Organoids are capable of modeling aspects of human development that are not well reflected in animal models or difficult to access, such as embryogenesis and brain development. With a view toward clinical translation, organoids are well suited to study patient-specific cellular responses to therapeutics and might be a possible source for cell replacements in regeneration or disease in the future. 

The key to successful modeling of in vivo biology is to provide an environment that mimics endogenous cell organization and organ structures. The latest technological advances in the organoid field therefore aim to improve regional specificity of cells; enhance complexity by adding tissue components, such as vascular and immune systems; and evaluate organoid integration after transplantation. These bioengineering approaches might also help address remaining limitations in organoid systems, such as insufficient maturation, regionally atypical cell types, or abnormal physiology. 

In this Cell Symposium, we will bring together scientists from across the disciplines of developmental and cell biology, bioengineering, and clinical translation to discuss exciting opportunities, advances, and challenges in the field.

Our topics will include:

• Modeling organ development 
• Modeling embryogenesis
• Integrating physiology and tissue complexity
• Optimizing culture and clinical translation
• Disease modeling