Harnessing Patient-Derived Materials to Unravel Cancer Cachexia
Understanding cancer cachexia -a complex syndrome marked by severe weight and muscle loss- requires research models that closely reflect the human condition. By utilizing patient-derived materials, we can directly investigate the mechanisms driving cachexia, paving the way for targeted therapies and improved patient outcomes.
How Patient-Derived Materials Are Used:
- Organoid Technology
We generate three-dimensional organoids from tumor tissue collected during patient surgeries. These organoids retain malignant and physiological features of the original tumor, allowing us to study how specific tumor-derived factors contribute to cachexia. By comparing organoids from cachectic and non-cachectic patients, we can identify key mediators that drive tissue wasting and metabolic disturbances. - Living Biobanks
We have comprehensive biobanks of patient-derived organoids, paired with detailed clinical data to enable the study of disease variability and the discovery of novel cachexia-inducing mechanisms. This approach supports personalized research and the development of targeted interventions. - Preclinical Models
Transplanting patient-derived organoids into animal models creates “avatars” that mimic human cachexia, facilitating the investigation of muscle and fat loss, immune system changes, and the effects of potential treatments. - Liquid Biopsies
Blood and other bodily fluids from patients provide circulating proteins, metabolites, lipid species, and other biomarkers. These minimally invasive samples are analyzed using advanced technologies to monitor cachexia progression, identify molecular drivers, and assess treatment responses.
By leveraging patient-derived materials, our research delivers insights that are directly relevant to real-world patient challenges. Explore how our innovative models and biobanks are shaping the future of cancer cachexia research. Connect with us to learn more or to collaborate in advancing patient-centered solutions.
Understanding the Role of Bile Salt Signaling in Gut and Liver Health
Approach
Our research team is dedicated to understanding the role of bile salt signaling in maintaining the health of the intestine and liver. We also explore how disruptions in this signaling pathway contribute to various diseases. By adopting a translational approach, we work directly with surgical patients who have an impaired enterohepatic circulation, using them as a model to better understand these complex processes. In addition, we employ cutting-edge techniques, such as patient-derived organoids and tissue slices, to gain deeper insights.
Through this comprehensive approach, we aim to uncover groundbreaking findings that could lead to more effective treatments and improve patient outcomes in the future.
Analytics
A key aspect of our research involves the detailed analysis of bile salt composition in patient materials. To facilitate this, we have developed a state-of-the-art LC-MS-based quantitative assay that not only covers a comprehensive panel of standard bile salts but also includes newly discovered bile salt metabolites derived from gut microbes. This advanced analytical technique enables us to identify and quantify a wide range of bile salts and metabolites, providing valuable insights into their roles in intestinal and liver health, as well as their potential involvement in disease processes.