Core Viewpoint - The research developed human airway submucosal gland (SMG) organoids to study respiratory inflammation and infection, marking a significant advancement in organoid research and its applications in drug development and regenerative medicine [2][3]. Group 1: Research Background - The study was led by Hans Clevers' team, with Lin Lin as the first author, and published in Cell Stem Cell on June 12, 2025 [2]. - The development of organoids began in 2009 with the cultivation of intestinal organoids from mouse intestinal stem cells, which opened the era of organoid research [2]. Group 2: Importance of SMG - SMG plays a crucial role in mucus secretion and host defense, containing various cell types that contribute to airway moisture and pathogen resistance [7]. - Recent studies indicate that SMG aids in the repair and regeneration of airway epithelium after injury, suggesting its potential as a reservoir of multipotent progenitor cells [8]. Group 3: Research Findings - The research established human organoids from primary bronchial tissues to explore the unique physiological characteristics of SMG and surface airway epithelium (SAE) [9]. - Single-cell RNA sequencing confirmed that the organoid models accurately replicate the inherent cellular heterogeneity of each tissue type, with SMG organoids rich in MUC5B-producing cells [9]. Group 4: Key Highlights - The study successfully cultivated SMG organoids from human bronchial tissue [10]. - ANPEP/CD13 was identified as a specific marker for glandular secretory cells [10]. - The research demonstrated that cytokines related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) trigger different inflammatory responses in the organoids [10]. Group 5: Conclusion - The SMG organoid model serves as a new tool for investigating the complex roles of SMG in human airways, providing a more physiologically relevant system for studying responses to infection and inflammation [12].