Modeling the human retina in a dish: Advances and future directions

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Stem Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), including embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), can differentiate into retinal organoids.
• These 3D organoids recapitulate key aspects of human retinal development, cellular architecture, and function.
• Retinal organoids offer a valuable in vitro model for studying human retinogenesis and diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the differentiation of hPSCs into retinal organoids.
• To discuss the application of retinal organoids in understanding retinal biology and disease pathogenesis.
• To examine emerging technologies enhancing retinal organoid models for translational potential.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing foundational insights from animal models to guide hPSC differentiation into retinal organoids.
• Applying advanced techniques such as genome editing, single-cell, and multiomics profiling.
• Exploring bioengineering strategies, organ-on-a-chip systems, biomaterial scaffolds, and 3D printing for improved culture systems.

Main Results:

• Retinal organoids successfully model human retinogenesis and provide insights into retinal development.
• These organoids serve as a platform for studying inherited and acquired retinal disorders.
• Emerging technologies are refining the fidelity and translational capabilities of retinal organoids.

Conclusions:

• Retinal organoids are powerful tools for advancing human retinal biology and disease research.
• Ongoing technological advancements are enhancing the utility of retinal organoids for therapeutic discovery.
• Retinal organoids hold significant promise for future applications in regenerative medicine.