Organoids, as three-dimensional, self-organizing structures derived from stem cells, have emerged as powerful tools for modeling human development and disease and screening drug candidates. These miniaturized organ-like systems recapitulate key aspects of tissue architecture and function, offering insights into developmental processes that are often unattainable using traditional two-dimensional cultures or animal models. By closely mimicking organ development, organoids provide researchers with a unique platform to study how tissues and organs form, function, and respond to various stimuli. And as techniques for generating and manipulating organoids evolve, researchers are increasingly able to study complex biological processes, drug responses, and disease mechanisms in a context that closely resembles the human body.

The significance of advanced organoid methods lies in their ability to bridge the gap between basic research and clinical applications. Recent advances have demonstrated their utility in areas such as cancer research, regenerative medicine, and infectious diseases, providing a platform for personalized medicine approaches. Moreover, organoids can be employed in high-throughput drug screening and toxicity testing, paving the way for more effective therapeutic strategies.

In light of these developments, BMC Methods is opening a collection on “Advanced organoid methods and protocols: from development to disease modeling.” We invite submissions on a wide range of method-based topics and approaches, including but not limited to:

Methods for organoid development and optimization

Organoid applications in personalized medicine

Approaches for utilizing organoids for disease models

High-throughput screening with organoid systems

Organoids as models for human and animals development and tissue formation

Comparative studies using human and animal organoids

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.

Genome editing technologies have revolutionized the field of molecular biology, providing unprecedented precision and efficiency in modifying genetic material. Techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9, TALENs, and ZFNs have enabled researchers to conduct targeted modifications in a variety of organisms, from bacteria to plants and animals. In particular, CRISPR has emerged as the most widely used and versatile tool, offering ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to make highly specific edits with minimal off-target effects.

The significance of advances in genome editing strategies extends beyond their ability to generate novel genetic modifications; it also lies in their potential to transition from concept to clinical application. These advancements enable the creation of more accurate cellular and animal models of pathological processes, with recent breakthroughs having led to the development of gene therapies for previously untreatable diseases, enhanced crop resilience in the face of climate change, and improved biotechnological applications.

The ability to edit genomes has profound implications for agriculture, medicine, and biotechnology, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in genetic research. As genome editing continues to evolve, the refinement and dissemination of standardized protocols is crucial for ensuring reproducibility and accessibility of these techniques across the research community. With this in mind, BMC Methods is opening this collection on "Advances in genome editing strategies.” Topics of interest include:

Genome editing tools advancements and applications

In vivo genome editing

Multiplex genome editing strategies

Genome editing in agriculture

Gene therapies

Applications of genome editing in disease modeling

Genome editing tools across model organisms

Genome editing in bacteria and Archea

AI-driven gene editing

Advancements in delivery systems

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.