Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 28, 2025
High-sensitivity Detection of Micrometastases Generated by GFP Lentivirus-transduced Organoids Cultured from a Patient-derived Colon Tumor
Published on: June 14, 2018
From organoids to bedside: Advances in modeling, decoding and targeting of colorectal cancer
Johannes Betge1,2,3, Rene Jackstadt4,5
1Junior Clinical Cooperation Unit Translational Gastrointestinal Oncology and Preclinical Models, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
Abstract:
Patient derived organoids closely resemble the biology of tissues and tumors. They are enabling ex vivo modeling of human diseases and dissecting key features of tumor biology like anatomical diversity or inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity. In the last years, organoids were established as models for drug discovery and explored to guide clinical decision making. In this review, we discuss the recent developments in organoid based research, elaborating on the developments in colorectal cancer as a prime example. We focus our review on the role of organoids to decode cancer cell dynamics and tumor microenvironmental complexity with the underlying bi-directional crosstalk. Additionally, advancements in the development of living biobanks, screening approaches, organoid based precision medicine and challenges of co-clinical trials are highlighted. We discuss ongoing efforts to overcome challenges that the field faces and indicate potential future directions.
Insights
Patient-derived organoids offer advanced ex vivo models for studying human diseases and tumor biology. This review highlights their role in drug discovery, precision medicine, and understanding cancer cell dynamics, particularly in colorectal cancer.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical research
- Cancer biology
- Organoid technology
Background:
- Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) closely mimic human tissue and tumor biology.
- Organoids enable ex vivo modeling of diseases, including anatomical diversity and heterogeneity.
- PDOs are increasingly used for drug discovery and clinical decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent developments in organoid-based research.
- To elaborate on organoid applications in colorectal cancer.
- To focus on organoids in decoding cancer cell dynamics and tumor microenvironment.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on organoid technology.
- Focus on colorectal cancer as a model system.
- Analysis of organoid applications in understanding cancer biology.
Main Results:
- Organoids are powerful tools for dissecting tumor heterogeneity and microenvironment.
- Advancements include living biobanks, screening, and precision medicine.
- Organoids facilitate understanding of bi-directional crosstalk in tumors.
Conclusions:
- Organoids are pivotal in advancing cancer research and precision medicine.
- Future directions include overcoming co-clinical trial challenges.
- Organoid technology holds significant promise for future therapeutic strategies.
