An organoid model of the human adrenal cortex identifies drivers of steroidogenesis and zonation [spatial]
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ABSTRACT: The adrenal cortex is the main source of steroid hormones including aldosterone, cortisol and androgens. These hormones play a crucial part in maintaining blood pressure, regulating metabolism and sexual development, respectively. The growth factors and transcriptional networks governing adrenal zonation remain poorly understood. Here, we established organoids derived from primary developing human adrenal cortex tissue. These tissue-resident stem cell-derived organoids display longevity and are composed of mature cells producing different steroid hormones. We use spatial transcriptomics to identify zonated growth factors in tissue, and explore the role of 42 different molecules in controlling cell identity and steroidogenesis using organoids. We find that a combination of WNT, cAMP, BMP/TGFβ and nuclear receptors can regulate cell states representing the different cortical zones. Together, human adrenal cortex organoids represent a complex cellular model to study adrenal biology and disease.
ORGANISM(S): Homo sapiens
PROVIDER: GSE293783 | GEO | 2026/03/12
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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