3D rendering of a spherical cancer model showing complex cellular architecture against a soft pink background.
Articles

From discovery to clinical trials: a case study in organoid-based cancer research

Discover how patient-derived organoids can be applied throughout the oncology drug development pipeline, demonstrated in colorectal cancer research.

Colorectal cancer remains one of the most common and challenging malignancies worldwide, particularly in patients with metastatic disease and tumors driven by complex molecular alterations. Traditional preclinical models often fail to fully capture the genetic diversity and biological complexity of patient tumors, creating challenges in predicting therapeutic responses. As a result, researchers are increasingly adopting advanced in vitro models that more closely reflect human disease biology. 

This case study examines how patient-derived organoids were used throughout the drug development process, highlighting approaches for target validation, high-throughput screening, lead optimization, efficacy testing, and toxicity assessment in colorectal cancer research.

Download this case study to learn:  

  •  How patient-derived organoids capture relevant tumor heterogeneity  
  • Strategies for using organoid biobanks to screen and prioritize therapeutic candidates  
  • Approaches for evaluating efficacy, mechanism of action, and potential toxicity using matched tumor and healthy organoids 

Sponsored by

  • merck

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