Brain organoids as models to study human neocortex development and evolution.

Bibliographic Collection: 
CARTA-Inspired Publication
Publication Type: Journal Article
Authors: Heide, M; Huttner, WB; Mora-Bermúdez, F
Year of Publication: 2018
Journal: Curr Opin Cell Biol
Volume: 55
Pagination: 8-16
Date Published: 2018 Dec
Publication Language: eng
ISSN: 1879-0410
Abstract:

Since their recent development, organoids that emulate human brain tissue have allowed in vitro neural development studies to go beyond the limits of monolayer culture systems, such as neural rosettes. We present here a review of organoid studies that focuses on cortical wall development, starting with a technical comparison between pre-patterning and self-patterning brain organoid protocols. We then follow neocortex development in space and time and list those aspects where organoids have succeeded in emulating in vivo development, as well as those aspects that continue to be pending tasks. Finally, we present a summary of medical and evolutionary insight made possible by organoid technology.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2018.06.006
Alternate Journal: Curr. Opin. Cell Biol.