Precision Organoid Engineering for Multi-Organ Interaction Studies (POEM)

Organoids are miniature versions of human organs. These organoid models enable the experimental investigation of complex diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders and cancer. The "POEM" program aims to develop better organoid models to study these diseases. The challenge is to better reflect the complexity of cells and interactions between organs and to produce organoids reliably. New engineering approaches and automated production methods, supported by machine learning, will be used to solve these problems. The aim is to reproducibly produce clinically relevant organoid models. They have the potential to improve disease modeling and reduce animal testing. These technologies will also be used to establish an organoid platform at Heidelberg University.