New organoid center supports research into possible cell-based therapies
Researchers at the Technical University of Munich are studying miniature organ structures and potential treatments.
AI illustrationThe Technical University of Munich has opened a center for research into miniature organ structures. Researchers at COS grow these organoids from stem cells or human tissue and work with colleagues at the TUM University Hospital to help bring potential therapies closer to clinical use.
Organoids are three-dimensional structures generally made from several interacting cell types. Their structure and composition allow them to reproduce processes in the body more closely than conventional cell cultures. Because they include fewer cell types, researchers can also control experiments more easily than with animal models.
Matthias Hebrok, Professor of Applied Stem Cell and Organoid Systems and Director of COS, expects researchers eventually to develop miniature organs that fully reproduce the properties of their biological counterparts. That remains an expectation as the range of organ functions researchers can replicate continues to expand.
Potential applications extend beyond basic research. Organoid-based therapies could replace impaired organ functions through cell-based treatments. The collaboration with hospital colleagues is intended to help move those possible therapies toward clinical practice.