[Human organoids and their clinical promise in the neuromuscular field]

Organoids have emerged as innovative three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models capable of reproducing the essential structural and functional characteristics of human organs. They offer an alternative between traditional two dimensions (2D) cell cultures and animal models. Derived from stem cells, organoids have an intrinsic capacity for self-organisation and morphogenesis, recapitulating the processes of embryonic development. Three elements are crucial for their generation: the origin of the stem cells, the extracellular matrix, and controlled exposure to morphogens. Among the most promising applications, neuromuscular organoids (NMOs) enable the co-differentiation of motor neurons, skeletal muscle cells, and Schwann cells from neuro-mesodermal progenitors. 3D NMO models and simplified 2D versions have been developed, complemented by assembloid-type approaches or microfluidic devices, facilitating the study of inter-cellular interactions and pharmacological testing. Produced from patients' iPS cells (induced pluripotent stem cells), NMOs offer a relevant platform for disease modelling, study of functional phenotypes and pharmacological screening in personalized medicine. Despite these advances, limitations remain, hindering the routine use of organoids. The standardization of protocols and the automation of analyses will enable the full translational potential of organoids to be exploited in the future.