Forschungsseminar: Lecture by Prof. Dr. Matthias Lütolf, FHNW School of Life Sciences

Organoids - miniaturised, three-dimensional (3D) tissues grown from stem cells - have emerged as powerful models for studying human biology. By mimicking key features of real tissues and organs, they offer an unprecedented way to investigate diseases, test drug responses, and ultimately accelerate the development of new therapies. However, most organoids today form through stochastic and only partially understood processes: groups of initially similar stem cells self-organise in a 3D hydrogel matrix or in suspension and gradually take on tissue-like structures.

Because this self-organisation happens without the precise patterning cues that guide normal organ formation in the embryo - such as defined chemical gradients or mechanical boundaries - the resulting organoids often vary widely in their shape, size, and function. These inconsistencies, together with fundamental differences between organoids and the organs they aim to model, limit their ability to predict human biology reliably in research and drug development.

In this talk, Prof. Dr. Matthias Lütolf will discuss efforts to engineer the next generation of organoids by deliberately shaping the microenvironments around stem cells. By introducing controlled physical, chemical and mechanical cues, they aim to guide self-organisation more predictably and reproducibly. He will highlight how these engineered systems bring organoids closer to the structure and behaviour of native tissues, enabling more physiologically relevant and reliable disease models - particularly for studying solid tumours and assessing potential therapeutic interventions.

To ensure that the research seminars are an enjoyable experience for everyone, please bear the following in mind:

• If you arrive late, enter the room quietly, close the door gently and take your seat.
• It is fine to eat a light snack discreetly, but please do so without making any noise or distracting other participants.
• Please give the guest speaker your full attention and do not use your laptop or phone.

Thank you very much.