Progress in spinal cord organoid research: advancing understanding of neural development, disease modelling, and regenerative medicine

Spinal cord organoids (SCOs) are revolutionizing the study of spinal cord development and disease mechanisms. They provide a three-dimensional model that mimics the complexity of native tissue. Researchers are making methodological breakthroughs in inducing regional specification and cellular diversity within SCOs. This enhances their ability to predict drug responses and mimic pathological conditions like neurodegenerative diseases and neuromuscular disorders. Despite progress, challenges remain in achieving vascularisation and mature neuronal integration in SCOs. Overcoming these limitations could lead to significant advances in regenerative medicine and therapeutic development.

• 1
  SCOs effectively model spinal cord morphogenesis, offering insights into the intricate processes of neural tube formation and regional specification.
• 2
  SCOs demonstrate utility in neurodegenerative disease research, simulating pathological conditions such as muscular dystrophy and loss of Schwann cells in ALS models.
• 3
  Advanced bioengineering techniques, including the use of biomaterials and 3D printing, enhance the structure and function of SCOs, facilitating the study of cellular interactions and neural circuit formation.