New podcast and video: ELSI Dialogues – Organoids: Scientific, ethical and regulatory aspects

Introduction

Organoids are defined as three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems that can be called “mini-organs” as they mimic some of the key multicellular, anatomical and even functional characteristics of real organs. Organoids are praised as a substitute for animal models in preclinical studies. At the same time, organoid technology raises issues around informed consent or privacy of donors.

This episode of ELSI Dialogues features multidisciplinary experts discussing ethical, regulatory, and scientific aspects of organoid technology. Following a brief introduction in organoid research, a special focus is placed on biobanking from the patient perspective. The panellists discuss trust, trustworthiness, therapeutic misconception, and the need for regulation. They also challenge definitions and the consequences of terminology such as ‘donation’ and ‘mini-organ’.

This is a collaborative effort between the ELSI Services & Research Department and the Stakeholder Forum Patient Pillar of BBMRI-ERIC.

Access the learning

Originally a live webinar, the podcast and video are presented by Melanie Goisauf with contributions from Zisis Kozlakidis, María Berdasco Menéndez, Signe Mežinska, and Mike Lensink.

Video

Podcast

BBMRI-ERIC Podcast

Meet Dr. Ángel Álvarez-Prado, principal investigator at the Translational Cancer Immunogenomics Lab at the Luxembourg Institute of Health. His journey took him from a curious child and self-described “computer nerd” to the head of his own laboratory, dedicated to advancing cancer treatment. Ángel first crossed paths with BBMRI-ERIC in 2023 while working as a postdoctoral fellow at the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research at the University of Lausanne. He was selected to participate in the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting, an annual event where young scientists have the rare opportunity to engage with Nobel Laureates and explore breakthroughs in their fields.

BBMRI-ERIC sponsored Ángel’s participation and the experience helped spark his motivation to become independent and establish his own translational research lab. Later, as his dream of building a lab began to take shape, Ángel started analysing clinical samples and BBMRI-ERIC played a key role by helping him identify suitable collections for his research and by streamlining access to them.

In today’s episode, Angel shares his research, his vision for personalised cancer therapies and offers advice to aspiring scientists considering a career in research.

Further reading:

Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting: https://www.lindau-nobel.org/

BBMRI Podcast: https://www.bbmri-eric.eu/bbmri-eric/bbmri-eric-podcast/