Human intestinal organoids with functional enteric neurons and vasculature
Translational potential of human intestinal organoids (HIOs) derived from human pluripotent stem cells is limited due to the lack of neurons, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle.
The researchers leverage the human intestinal stem cell niche factor EPIREGULIN (EREG) to enhance PSC-derived human intestinal organoid (HIO) differentiations.
EREG-grown HIOs pattern epithelium, mesenchyme, smooth muscle, neurons, and endothelium in a single differentiation.
After transplant, HIOs mature further, and functional studies show peristaltic-like function and functional vasculature.
https://www.cell.com/cell-stem-cell/fulltext/S1934-5909(25)00046-3
