Organoid Imaging: Seeing Development and Function

Organoids are miniaturized and simplified versions of an organ produced in vitro from stem or progenitor cells. They are used as a model system consisting of multiple cell types forming an architecture relevant to the organ and carrying out the function of the organ. They are a useful tool to study development, homeostasis, regeneration, and disease. The imaging of organoids has become a pivotal method to visualize and understand their self-organization, symmetry breaking, growth, differentiation, and function. In this review, we discuss imaging methods, how to analyze these images, and challenges in organoid research.

Automated summary

Organoids are simplified and miniaturized versions of organs produced in vitro from stem or progenitor cells. They are useful for studying development, homeostasis, regeneration, and disease. Imaging methods play a pivotal role in visualizing and understanding organoids' self-organization, growth, differentiation, and function.