Stem Cell-Derived Organoids, Embryoids, and Embryos: Advances in Organismic Development In Vitro Force Us to Re-Focus on Ethical and Legal Aspects of Model Choice

Abstract

While research on stem cell-derived tissues and organoids is rapidly expanding, the technically related creation of complex embryoids has recently excited a vivid discussion since it raises ethical questions about individuation and the possible gain of viability. The present study focuses on the onset of organismic development and the proposed biological and legal definitions for the terms embryo, embryoid, and organoid. It is concluded that such considerations have become important for investigators’ choices of the appropriate in vitro model systems, allowing the formation of organoids vs. complex embryoids.