A novel morphometry system automatically assessing the growth and regeneration of intestinal organoids

As compared with 2D cell line cultures, 3D intestinal organoids are better at maximally recapitulating the physiological features of stem cells in vivo. However, the complex 3D structure is an obstacle which must be objectively and automatically evaluated to assess colony growth and regeneration. Meanwhile, no internal standard currently exists for evaluating the size of heterogeneities in organoids or defining those regenerating colonies. Herein, we developed a simple morphometry system to image MTT-stained organoids. The growth curve of organoids can be automatically generated based upon analyzing the integrated optical density using software. Referencing the definition standards of in vivo regenerating crypts, the perimeters of crypts cultured 24 h after seeding were selected as an "Organoid Unit" to further evaluate colony survival rate and colony size heterogeneities after exposure to varying doses of irradiation. Moreover, the morphometry-based quantification data collected confirmed other findings associated with radiation sensitizing effects of ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein (ATR) inhibitor and the radiation protective effect of IL-22. In summary, the novel organoid morphometry system combined with a new internal reference is a practical means for standardizing assessment of growth, survival and regeneration of intestinal organoid colonies. This method has promise to facilitate drug screens in intestinal and other organoid systems.