The Application of Organoid Technology in the Research of Central Nervous System Tumors

In recent years, organoid technology has emerged as a pivotal tool in central nervous system (CNS) tumor research. By recapitulating the 3D architecture, molecular profiles, and dynamic interactions of tumors with their microenvironment, it provides an innovative platform for elucidating disease mechanisms and facilitating drug screening. Brain organoids are primarily utilized to model normal neurodevelopmental processes and investigate CNS disease pathogenesis, whereas CNS tumor organoids are chiefly employed to simulate tumor heterogeneity and therapeutic responses. This review delineates the methodologies for establishing brain organoids and CNS tumor organoid models, along with their applications in CNS oncology research, with particular emphasis on the technical features and advantages of pluripotent stem cell-derived, patient-derived, and xenograft-derived organoid models. Furthermore, it examines current challenges in model standardization, microenvironment recapitulation, and ethical considerations pertaining to human tissue sources. Future directions for advancing this technology are also discussed.