Minimum Information about Organoid Research (MIOR): a framework for reproducibility, interoperability, and translation

Organoid technology has emerged as a paradigm-shifting platform in developmental biology, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine. Research progress has outpaced efforts at standardizing reporting of organoid experiments. Heterogeneity of donor characteristics, culture conditions, and assay design remains to complicate reproducibility and limit integration of data between laboratories and repositories. Without harmonization of reporting, the translational value of organoid systems is compromised. To fulfill this requirement, we propose the Minimum Information about Organoid Research (MIOR) framework. MIOR is adapted to serve the unique requirements of organoid research, such as cellular heterogeneity, three-dimensional structure, and multimodal output. The framework offers a modular design in six modules: Project/Dataset, Source, Organoid Characterization & Quality Control, Culture & Manipulation, Integrated Engineering Strategies, and Experimental Assay & Data. These types are delineated as required for fundamental reproducibility and comparability or proposed to provide greater context and interpretability. By creating an enforceable and usable standard, MIOR enhances reproducibility, facilitates data interoperability, and maximizes the translational validity of organoid research. Use of MIOR will transform organoid datasets from one-time products into reusable, combinable materials, and accelerate discovery and clinical translation.