A Novel Use of Embryonic Gut Organoid Culture to Investigate Duodenal Atresia

The cause of duodenal atresia (DA) is not known. Tandler's “solid cord” hypothesis conflicts with current biological evidence. In humans, a genetic aetiology is supported by the association with Trisomy 21. Interruption of Fgf10 is the strongest genetic link to DA in mice, demonstrating an increased incidence and severity as embryos mature. This project aimed to develop an organoid model to facilitate ex vivo DA research on the FGF10/FGFR2b signalling pathway. We hypothesised that DA morphology represents an evolving spectrum of disease and that Fgf10 knockout organoids would vary in growth pattern compared to wild-type.