Application of real-time live cell imaging analysis in 3D cell models

Human organs are in vitro 3D cell cultures that can highly simulate the structure, spatial morphology, and genetic diversity of real organs. These "miniature organs" typically come from embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), neonatal stem cells, adult stem cells (ASCs), and tumor tissues extracted from patients' bodies. From the first demonstration in 1907 that isolated sponge cell tissue can self organize and differentiate into complete organisms in vitro, to the successful establishment of 3D organoids using adult stem cells for the first time, organoid culture technology has continued to develop.

Compared to 2D cell models, organoids can more accurately reflect and simulate the real physiological and pathological environment in the body. Up to now, organoids have shown great potential for application in multiple research fields such as precision medicine, drug discovery, regenerative medicine, and disease modeling. Although many applications are still in the early stages of development, organoids provide new opportunities for disease research and serve as important supplements to existing cell lines and animal models.

Pain points in organoid culture and analysis

Multiple organizations and research institutions, including the American Culture Collection (ATCC), have released numerous protocols for the cultivation of multiple types of organs, defining their cultivation conditions, inoculation density, substrate recommendations, and other key parameters. However, quantitative analysis of organoids faces numerous challenges, such as:

The repeatability of organoid formation in each well cannot be guaranteed, and there is a lack of mature experimental protocols
l   Low detection throughput and limited data acquisition
l   Time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring manual operation to obtain organoid images
l   Need to use third-party software for analysis - limited quantitative information
l   Inadequate environmental control during image acquisition results in low credibility of the results

The advancement of intelligent and efficient organoid culture and analysis technology is crucial for achieving fast, accurate, and comprehensive imaging and analysis. Sartorius Incucyte ® The real-time live cell analysis system can dynamically analyze the interactions between organoid cells in real-time, providing accurate and quantitative analysis results.