Wittbrodt Lab Organoid Research

The retina is one of the best understood neuronal sense organs. Retinal organoids derived from pluripotent stem cells are a promising solution to challenges in basic and biomedical research. We have derived organoids from rapidly growing teleosts to overcome issues with long developmental times, success rates and lack of possibilities for direct comparison in developmental stages. We can reproducibly and robustly generate retinal organoids which demonstrate retinal specification, morphogenesis and differentiation much like a developing retina. In combination with advanced genome editing techniques, we are able to address aspects of development and disease and are now systematically probing the impact of physical environment on morphogenesis and differentiation by combing organoid culture with 3-D printing techniques and new materials. In a combined effort within the 3D-Matter Made to Order Excellence (3DMM2O) Cluster we are working towards building tailor-made 3D scaffolds that are able to direct cell retinal fate by providing an environment that instructs organoid growth and differentiation beyond their intrinsic limits.