Comparative Study of Basement-Membrane Matrices for Human Stem Cell Maintenance and Intestinal Organoid Generation

Our research aims to integrating vitro and in silico models to inform drug discovery and development at early stages of development. In a nutshell, we combine stem cell technology, organoids and microfluidics to investigate drug disease interactions, membrane integrity, and to predict drug absorption and drug metabolism. In our field, cutting edge technologies include physiological based in silicon models in combination with advanced in vitro systems like microphysiological system, like organs on a chip and organoids.

Additionally to this, 3D bioprinting is currently being explored to maximize the scalability of these more complex in vitro models. Current experimental challenges include enhancing tissue microenvironments and physiological fidelity of these in vitro models, minimizing the experimental variability and optimizing high throughput capabilities. Also, establishing standardized protocols that are compliant with the regulatory standards for drug development.

With the goal of decreasing the experimental variability, better mimicking the tissue microenvironment and adhere to the regulatory guidelines for human drug development, this protocol describe the optimization of an organoid generation and the maintenance of this organoid system using a cell-free hydrogel system with a control composition and control mechanical properties. We are interested in developing micro physiological systems to model in special populations, not well represented in clinical trials, like for example, people living with Down syndrome. Our lab is also working on bringing novel immuno-oncology based treatment approaches to new settings across gastrointestinal and lung cancers.