The role of food and nutrients in human health and chronic disease has long been recognized, but only in recent decades have advanced models shed light on the underlying mechanisms. Traditional 2D cell culture systems, while valuable for studying cellular pathways influenced by nutrients, lack the multicellular complexity and physiological relevance of living tissues. Organoids, by contrast, are 3D structures that mimic organ architecture, function, and cellular diversity, offering more accurate in vitro models for biomedical and nutritional research. Intestinal organoids, in particular, have gained prominence as robust systems for studying nutrient uptake, transport, metabolism, and host-microbiome interactions. These models offer unprecedented opportunities to understand diet-related health processes while addressing limitations of conventional systems. Current challenges include scalability, cost, and integration with systemic physiology, yet their potential for advancing nutritional sciences is immense.

To accelerate progress, greater collaboration, innovation, and resource investment are needed to fully realize organoid models as transformative tools in nutrition research. Let us know your thoughts on leveraging organoid technologies to shape the future of nutritional science and human health.

Citation: Menikdiwela, K. R., Lenis, M. J., & Storch, J. (2025). The Use of Organoid Cultures in Advancing Nutrition Research. Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.), 100489. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.advnut.2025.100489