Microorgans: A Fresh Look at Biomedical Research

Over the past decade and a half, biomedical research has seen a fascinating evolution, moving from cultivating stem cells to constructing intricate, miniature organ models known as organoids. These tiny, 3D structures mimic the functions of full-sized organs, marking a shift from understanding cell creation to exploring how these cells are used to build and analyze human tissue models. Researchers are now delving into the methods and reasoning behind creating organoids, highlighting their growing significance in human health studies. By conducting ethnographic research across Europe and North America, scientists are examining the process of organoid creation and the logic driving their development. These in vitro models are becoming increasingly crucial for medical advancements, raising sociological questions about their "near human" status. Sociologists of health and illness are urged to critically evaluate how organoids are being used as stand-ins for human physiology, contributing to a broader understanding of human representation and diversity in biomedical research. This shift in biomedical research isn't just about experimental hurdles; it also involves socio-political dimensions. Investigating how organoids are utilized as proxies for human physiology is essential for addressing the complexities that come with these advancements.