Ethical issues in organoid research: Informed consent, clinical applications and the future

Abstract

Background: The biotechnological advances that guide pluripotent neural stem cells to stimulate corticogenesis and spontaneously mimic the architecture of the immature human brain have extensive clinical and commercial applications. Known as organoids, these human neural tissue derivatives present a complex network of challenges, which include cryopreservation, donor consent, classification as hybrids and the creation of chimeras. The possibility that neural organoids may develop some form of consciousness is a critical issue, which includes the perception of pain and sensory deprivation. In the wider sense, organoid research also has relevance within space exploration and palaeoanthropology.
Objectives: This article explores ethical issues regarding informed consent, clinical applications and the future of organoid research.
Method: This review examines current research and the complex research protocols pertaining to brain organoids, along with the various attempts to formulate an appropriate ethical model.
Results: Research on organoids represents a significant biotechnological advancement with enormous potential to enhance various scientific endeavours both now and in the future.
Conclusion: The necessity to proactively deliberate, assess and responsibly guide the complex ethical issues surrounding the use and manipulation of human neural tissue is widely recognised. This is important to avoid unduly obstructing valid research programmes, which offer significant benefits to both humans and non-human animals, as discussed in the text.
Contribution: Organoid research is currently one of the most promising revolutions in biomedical research, with clear benefits for both human and non-human animals.