Colorectal cancer is among the most common malignancies worldwide, and its high biological variability makes effective treatment challenging. This project aims to introduce a promising 3D in vitro model patient-derived tumoroids, that overcomes the limitations of traditional 2D cell cultures and patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) in mice. Tumoroids provide highly sensitive and physiologically relevant platforms for studying tumor biology and represent a significant step toward personalized medicine.
Furthermore, the project will investigate the effects of newly synthesized conjugates of schizophyllan with the chemotherapeutic agent, oxaliplatin, on colorectal cancer tumoroids. The obtained results will be compared with responses observed in PDX models to assess whether tumoroids can serve as reliable alternatives to animal experiments. This approach aligns with the 3Rs principles (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) and contributes to the development of more ethical and predictive cancer research methodologies.

Sustainable Development Goals

Masaryk University is committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to improve the conditions and quality of life on our planet by 2030.