How Organoids Helped Unravel the Mystery of the Zika Virus

Discover how brain organoids revolutionized our understanding of the Zika virus in this 17-minute TED talk. Explore the groundbreaking research led by Guo-li Ming, the Perelman Professor of Neuroscience at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine, as she explains the development and application of organoids - miniature organ-like structures grown in the lab. Learn how these tiny cellular collections closely mimic human organ development and reactions, providing invaluable insights into disease modeling and treatment. Delve into the pivotal role organoids played during the 2015 Zika virus outbreak, uncovering the link between the virus and microcephaly. Gain insight into the broader potential of organoids in advancing our knowledge of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's, autism, and schizophrenia, offering new avenues for research and therapeutic interventions.