Brain ‘Organoids’: Lab-Grown Cell Clusters Model Brain Functions

Scientists can coax stem cells into clusters that mimic the functions of brain regions, which could help us understand brain disorders.

Brain organoids are grown in a lab using stem cells, and can mimic the functions of different regions of the brain like the cortex, retina, and cerebellum. Though it may sound a bit like science fiction, this technology is increasingly being used to better understand brain disorders and eventually develop better treatments.

Ira talks with neuroscientist Dr. Giorgia Quadrato, assistant professor of stem cell biology and regenerative medicine at the University of Southern California, about the state of brain organoid research and her model that mimics the cerebellum.

Transcripts for each segment will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com.

To stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.