EasyOrganoid - Biological validation and transfer

Sub-project: EasyOrganoid - Biological validation and transfer

Organoids are three-dimensional cell cultures that mimic human tissue and are considered a promising alternative to animal testing. However, their use in research and teaching has so far been limited due to the high costs of establishing and cultivating them, the limited functionality of available devices and their lack of presence in university education.
The aim of the "EasyOrganoid" innovation network is to facilitate the use of organoids in research and teaching - through a cost-effective, modular system for incubation and imaging as well as accompanying e-learning courses.
The "EasyOrganoid - Bio" sub-project is working on four objectives at the central animal laboratory of Hannover Medical School. The first central objective is to standardize and optimize the fluorescence labeling of these organoids in order to enable reliable cell tracking and precise functional cell readout.
The biological validation of organoids cultured and analyzed using the EasyOrganoid device is of second central importance. The biological validation is carried out in collaboration with the LUH. The project aims to ensure a close match between molecular biological data and imaging data in order to accurately interpret biological questions.
A third major goal of the project is to develop a didactic concept that promotes the integration of these techniques into the education of students. The EasyOrganoid device is at the center of these modules and should not only provide students with practical skills in handling organoids, but also increase their awareness and knowledge of alternative methods to animal experiments.
The fourth aim of the sub-project is to transfer the EasyOrganoid device into practice and to process and evaluate the experience gained with all partners in order to set the course for sustainable use and further development.
EasyOrganoid should help to accelerate the spread of organoids as a standard method in biomedical research. The modular structure, ease of use and accompanying teaching materials significantly lower the barriers to entry - and could lead to a significant reduction in animal experiments in the long term.