Program

Next-generation organoids: Integrated approaches for biomedical research

Marie-Christine Durrieu (Université de Bordeaux, CBMN – UMR5248)

Abstract:

Today, organoids, tumoroids and spheroids are powerful in vitro models for biomedical research. These three-dimensional structures, derived from stem cells, primary tissues or tumour cells, faithfully reproduce the architecture and functioning of human tissues. They provide a better understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms and enable the study of disease progression and cell response to different stimuli. These models also offer a valuable tool for testing new molecules or treatments in a more predictive manner, while reducing the need for animal experimentation. Finally, they open up prospects for personalised medicine by evaluating individual responses to therapies on models derived from the patient themselves.

Our goal is to bring together communities of chemists, physicists, biologists, clinicians and social sciences and humanities partners around the theme of organoids. This meeting will highlight innovative work while giving clinicians a voice to express their needs, enriched by the expertise of social sciences and humanities partners, in order to structure and energise this multidisciplinary community.

Call for papers

Communications may cover, but are not limited to, the following topics:

1. Chemistry

• Design of biomaterials and hydrogels (synthetic, hybrid, biofunctionalised)

• Control of physicochemical and mechanical properties

• Selection and distribution of bioactive factors

• Microenvironment (pH, oxygen, ions)

• Encapsulation and controlled release of bioactive molecules

• Standardisation of materials for experimental reproducibility

2. Physics/Engineering

• Microfluidics and organ-on-chip systems

• Micro- and nano-manufacturing

• Biophysics of 3D tissues: forces, tension, mechanotransduction

• Collective cell dynamics and self-organisation

• Transport and diffusion of nutrients, oxygen, drugs

• Physical imaging and instrumentation

• Automation and robotisation of organoid production

• Multi-scale modelling and simulation (cell → tissue → organ)

3. Biology

• Stem cells and cell differentiation

• Intercellular signalling and morphogenetic gradients

• Co-cultures and multi-cell interactions

• Reconstitution of physiological and pathological niches

• Spatio-temporal organisation and plasticity of organoids

• Omics (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) and single-cell

• Advanced 3D/4D imaging for dynamic monitoring of organoids

Clinical

• Modelling human pathologies

• Personalised and predictive medicine

• Pharmacological screening and predictive toxicology

• Preclinical validation and correlation with patient data

• Development of diagnostics and biomarkers

• Interfaces with clinical trials and biobanks

5. Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS)

• Ethical issues related to organoids, particularly brain organoids

• Informed consent and governance of biological samples

• Social acceptability and perception of alternative models to animal experimentation

• Impact of organoids on medical practice and society

• Scientific communication and popularisation

• Public policy and regulation

• Socio-economic studies on the biotech and medtech sectors

Terms and conditions:

• One-page abstract

• Specify whether you would like a plenary conference/oral presentation/flash presentation or poster

• French or English for the conference

Conference coordination:

• Marie-Christine Durrieu (marie-christine.durrieu@inserm.fr)