Harvard researchers grow human brain organoids for up to seven years
Scientists at Harvard have cultivated brain organoids that survived for roughly seven years, far surpassing the previous record of just under two years.
Harvard scientists, headed by Paola Arlotta, have succeeded in keeping human brain organoids alive for approximately seven years, eclipsing the former record of 694 days. By combining cells of different ages and tracking DNA methylation patterns, they demonstrated that the organoids progress through developmental stages akin to an endogenous brain. The research, detailed in Nature, indicates that diverse cell types within the organoids can both record and recall their developmental age.
Although the organoids were later destroyed, the findings hint at the potential for extended studies of neurodevelopment and disease. Neuroscientist Guo-li Ming called the achievement a technological breakthrough. Arlotta hopes the work will aid investigations into conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia.
Why it matters
Long-lasting brain organoids could improve research on brain development and neurodegenerative diseases.
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