Organoid biobanking: identifying the ethics

R ecent developments in stem cell research and genomics have made it possible to grow mini-organs, socalled organoids, in culture. Organoids are self-assembling three-dimensional structures that closely resemble the architecture and function of real organs and are seen as one of the most significant developments in stem cell research with a wide range of applications in research and in the clinic. However, the relevant ethics for organoid technology have not been sufficiently addressed. First, the moral and legal status of organoids deserves further exploration. Second, organoid biobanking calls for the development of adequate consent procedures in both research and clinical applications. Third, the concept of mixed models in biobanking of organoids requires distinct governance structures. Fourth, we anticipate ethical challenges related to clinical translation. Further interdisciplinary discussion is required to stimulate morally responsible innovation. ...................................................... “As organoid biobanking is growing rapidly, it should be scrutinized whether and to what extent organoids give new twists to the ethical challenges in stem-cell research and analogous fields.” ......................................................