In vitro organogenesis is now becoming a realistic goal of stem cell biology, as one can obtain an unlimited number of pluripotent stem cells through reprogramming technology. One practical challenge is to develop a four‐dimensional (4‐D) stem cell culture system whereby multiple progenitors communicate in a spatiotemporal manner, as observed during in vivo organogenesis. This perspective summarizes the potential for emerging culture platforms in the future application of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)–derived miniature organs by recapitulating early embryogenesis.

Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2014); 96 3, 310–313. advance online publication 18 June 2014. doi:10.1038/clpt.2014.110