BioThrust as a lung organoid expansion platform: Insights into the first 3D cultivation

Introduction

Respiratory diseases are among the leading causes of mortality globally and thus are associated with a substantial medical burden and costs, highlighting the need for additional translational research. In vitro models, from basic airway cells to advanced tissue-engineered human lung organoids (hLOs), are vital for studying respiratory conditions such as infections, chronic inflammation, and cancer. Lung organoids, derived from somatic stem cells or human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) in particular, provide crucial insights into lung injury and regeneration by realistically mimicking in vivo human tissues [1–2].

This application note presents a Proof-of-Concept (POC) study showcasing preliminary results in the development of scalable lung organoid cultivation processes. A key innovation is the novel bioreactor, the ComfyCell, and the novel membrane stirrer MemStir developed by BioThrust. The artificial lung was designed for use in Stirred-Tank Bioreactors (STRs) and offers low shear rates and exceptional oxygen supply through diffusion, eliminating gas bubbles and thus foam formation. These conditions enable the scalable and more physiological production of shear-stress-sensitive organoids in a 3D setup.

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