GRK 3175:  Organoid-Based Modelling of Solid Tumors - Org-BOOST

• Subject Area: Medicine ; Basic Research in Biology and Medicine
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 554832155

Org-BOOST is an innovative research training group focused on educating young scientists to use organoid technology in advanced cancer research. The program integrates organoid-based models to study cancer from early tumor development to late-stage progression, offering a comprehensive view of solid tumor biology. At its core, Org-BOOST includes 10 competitively selected research projects addressing major challenges in cancer biology. These projects span cancers such as pancreatic, colon, and bladder, aiming to enhance understanding of tumor evolution, niche programming, and cell plasticity. Each project is co-supervised by 20 Principal Investigators (PIs) with diverse expertise across cancer biology, computational biology, bioengineering, and clinical research. This interdisciplinary approach ensures a broad and collaborative scientific perspective, integrating basic and translational research. Organoid models are central to Org-BOOST’s methodology. These models faithfully replicate human cancer and tumor microenvironments, enabling analysis at various scales and resolutions. Using patient-derived tumor tissues and genetically defined human pluripotent stem cells, researchers can explore cancer initiation, progression, and treatment responses in new ways. The program also employs assembloids—3D structures made by combining different organoids or cell types—to better reflect tumor interactions with their environment. Org-BOOST incorporates advanced analytical techniques, including single-molecule live microscopy and extracellular vesicle profiling, to study cancer dynamics and intercellular communication. These tools improve the understanding of tumor complexity and support the development of precision therapies. Beyond research, Org-BOOST provides a robust educational framework. Doctoral researchers receive training in organoid culture, single-cell sequencing, and bioprinting, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary and computational skills. The program combines PhD and MD training with a PI mentoring system, pairing junior and senior scientists to foster career development and leadership. Org-BOOST is supported by a unique research infrastructure, especially the Core Facility Organoids at the University of Ulm (UUlm), which specializes in patient-specific organoids and biobanking. Additional UUlm resources in single-cell analysis and biomedical engineering further support the organoid-based investigations. By combining organoid models, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced technologies, Org-BOOST aims to reshape cancer research and treatment. It promotes early detection, supports precision medicine, and trains the next generation of cancer scientists. The integration of 10 projects, 20 PIs, and a comprehensive educational strategy positions Org-BOOST as a forward-thinking and impactful initiative in cancer biology.

• DFG Programme: Research Training Groups
• Applicant Institution: Universität Ulm
• Spokesperson: Professor Dr. Alexander Kleger
• Participating Researchers: Professor Dr. Markus Breunig; Dr. Ion Cristian Cirstea, Ph.D.; Dr. Tim Eiseler; Professorin Dr. Nadine Gaisa; Professor Dr. Christof Gebhardt; Professor Dr. Hartmut Geiger; Professorin Ani Grigoryan, Ph.D.; Dr. Mirja Harms; Dr. Sandra Heller; Dr. Meike Hohwieler; Privatdozentin Yuan-Na Lin, Ph.D.; Dr. Jessica Lindenmayer; Dr. Michael Karl Melzer; Professor Medhanie Mulaw, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Jan Münch; Professor Dr. Franz Oswald; Privatdozent Dr. Lukas Perkhofer; Dr. Elodie Roger; Professor Dr. Jan Tuckermann