DFG Funds Org-BOOST Graduate School with €9 Million
- This text details the establishment of the "Organoid-Based mOdelling of Solid Tumors" (Org-BOOST) graduate school at Ulm University, funded by the DFG with nearly nine million euros.
- * Focus: Org-BOOST centers on using organoids (3D, lab-grown tissues derived from patient stem or tumor cells) and assembloids (organoids combined with other cell types like immune cells)...
- In essence, Org-BOOST represents a cutting-edge approach to cancer research, leveraging advanced 3D modeling techniques to personalize treatment strategies and improve patient care.
Summary of the Org-BOOST Graduate School at Ulm University
This text details the establishment of the “Organoid-Based mOdelling of Solid Tumors” (Org-BOOST) graduate school at Ulm University, funded by the DFG with nearly nine million euros. HereS a breakdown of the key facts:
* Focus: Org-BOOST centers on using organoids (3D, lab-grown tissues derived from patient stem or tumor cells) and assembloids (organoids combined with other cell types like immune cells) to model solid tumors. This allows for personalized cancer research and therapy planning.
* Goal: To understand how genetic changes, immune responses, and the tumor microenvironment interact to influence tumor growth and therapy response.Ultimately, the goal is to develop tailored therapies and improve cancer patient outcomes.
* Approach:
* patient-Specific Models: Creating organoids from individual patient tumor samples.
* Multi-Tumor Types: Studying various cancers including pancreas, bladder, intestines, breast, and blood cancers.
* Data Integration: Combining molecular characterization of organoids with machine learning analysis.
* “Living Biobank”: Utilizing the Ulm Core facility Organoids (CFO) for automated organoid generation and testing.
* Unique Features:
* First of its kind: One of the first graduate schools globally focused on organoid technologies within a structured doctoral program.
* Interdisciplinary: Integrates clinical practice, stem cell biology, 3D biofabrication, and data science.
* Translational Oncology: Aims to directly impact therapy decisions.
* Reduced Animal Testing: Promotes the use of human organoids to minimize the need for animal models.
* Structure: The program is integrated with existing Ulm University institutions (IGradU, i3RU, CCCU) and offers specialized training thru courses, retreats, and innovative learning formats.
* DFG Support: The DFG (German Research Foundation) funds graduate colleges to strengthen structured doctoral studies and prepare researchers for both academic and non-academic careers.
In essence, Org-BOOST represents a cutting-edge approach to cancer research, leveraging advanced 3D modeling techniques to personalize treatment strategies and improve patient care.