Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology (Oct 2020)

The Application of Brain Organoids: From Neuronal Development to Neurological Diseases

  • Yikai Shou,
  • Yikai Shou,
  • Yikai Shou,
  • Feng Liang,
  • Shunliang Xu,
  • Xuekun Li,
  • Xuekun Li,
  • Xuekun Li

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fcell.2020.579659
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 8

Abstract

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Brain organoids are derived from induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells under three-dimensional culture condition. The generation of an organoid requires the self-assembly of stem cells, progenitor cells, and multiple types of differentiated cells. Organoids display structures that resemble defined brain regions and simulate specific changes of neurological disorders; thus, organoids have become an excellent model for investigating brain development and neurological diseases. In the present review, we have summarized recent advances of the methods of culturing brain organoids and the applications of brain organoids in investigating neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases.

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