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Review
. 2024 Jun 21;15(1):183.
doi: 10.1186/s13287-024-03790-5.

Osteochondral organoids: current advances, applications, and upcoming challenges

Maryam Faeed  1 , Mahsa Ghiasvand  2   3 , Bahar Fareghzadeh  4 , Leila Taghiyar  5   6
Affiliations
Review

Osteochondral organoids: current advances, applications, and upcoming challenges

Maryam Faeed et al. Stem Cell Res Ther. .

Abstract

In the realm of studying joint-related diseases, there is a continuous quest for more accurate and representative models. Recently, regenerative medicine and tissue engineering have seen a growing interest in utilizing organoids as powerful tools for studying complex biological systems in vitro. Organoids, three-dimensional structures replicating the architecture and function of organs, provide a unique platform for investigating disease mechanisms, drug responses, and tissue regeneration. The surge in organoid research is fueled by the need for physiologically relevant models to bridge the gap between traditional cell cultures and in vivo studies. Osteochondral organoids have emerged as a promising avenue in this pursuit, offering a better platform to mimic the intricate biological interactions within bone and cartilage. This review explores the significance of osteochondral organoids and the need for their development in advancing our understanding and treatment of bone and cartilage-related diseases. It summarizes osteochondral organoids' insights and research progress, focusing on their composition, materials, cell sources, and cultivation methods, as well as the concept of organoids on chips and application scenarios. Additionally, we address the limitations and challenges these organoids face, emphasizing the necessity for further research to overcome these obstacles and facilitate orthopedic regeneration.

Keywords: 3D culture; Mini-joint; Osteochondral Organoid; Regenerative orthopedics; Stem cells.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest with the contents of this article.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Graphical abstract. This is a summary that explains the osteochondral organoid strategies with their application
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Organizing cell origins and microenvironment for osteochondral organoids. PDCs: periosteum-derived cells, MSCs: mesenchymal stem cells, iPSCs: induced pluripotent stem cells, CM: extracellular matrix, BMP: bone morphogenic protein, TGF: transforming growth factor
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Microstructure of osteochondral tissue complex
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
The schematic figure shows the osteochondral organoids advantages
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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