PDAC organoids for drug screening targeting prooxidative stress and glutamine metabolism
Utilizing organoid models for PDAC drug screening to identify compounds inducing prooxidative stress and inhibiting glutamine metabolism, this solution aims to enhance therapeutic efficacy by targeting critical tumor pathways.
Overview
The research seeks to revolutionize pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) drug screening by utilizing organoid models. These models help identify compounds that simultaneously induce prooxidative stress and inhibit glutamine metabolism. This dual-action mechanism is expected to target crucial pathways in tumor progression, potentially leading to more effective PDAC therapies and improved patient outcomes.
Technical specifications
- Organoid models: Developed using stiffness-tunable extracellular matrix (ECM) to replicate key features of PDAC, such as cellular heterogeneity and dense stroma.
- Drug screening focus: Targets include prooxidative stress and glutamine/glutamate metabolism.
- Validation procedures: Profiles of 10 PDAC cell lines in various ECM stiffness conditions (~1, ~5, ~20 kPa) have been established.
- Assay transparency: Allows for in situ performance of viability, proliferation, and metabolic activity assessments.
- Compound testing: Involves transient metal compounds, gallium complexes, phytochemicals, and enzymes.
Technology readiness level
The technology readiness level is stated as 4, indicating the solution has been validated in laboratory environments. Future plans include testing in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) and syngeneic models to ensure clinical relevance.
About University of Southern California
USC is a large, comprehensive private research university in Los Angeles, anchored by two urban campuses and an academic health system. Industry engages through applied research institutes such as the Information Sciences Institute, co-located engineering and clinical facilities, and flexible sponsored research contracting. Proximity to the region’s aerospace, media, and biotech corridors provides access to testbeds, talent, and pilot-scale partners across the greater L.A. innovation economy. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from NIH, NSF, and other major agencies alongside significant industry-sponsored awards. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP strategy, licensing, corporate partnerships, and venture formation.
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