Organoids in Antiviral Research: Potential and Challenges

The inherent bottleneck due to divergent cell and tissue biology offered by cell culture and animal models motivated researchers to develop an alternative model system that can more precisely recapitulate the architecture and function of human and animal organs. Thanks to the extensive efforts that have led to the establishment of three-dimensional (3D) organ-like architectures called “organoids” or “mini-organs” that display the key structural, functional, and biological complexity of an organ. The organoids have been interrogated to broaden the scope of virology research, including disease modeling, personalized medicine, and drug discovery. In this chapter, we first provide fundamental protocols for culturing and passaging the organoids, as well as important points for differentiation and nutritional requirements particular to each organoid. We also discussed the outcomes of multiple antiviral investigations conducted using different organoids. Finally, the limitations of organoids in biomedical research in general and antiviral research in particular are also discussed, where we also identify critical areas for organoids improvement in the upcoming years.