Our goal is to develop advanced in vitro models that minimise the need for animal testing, tackling key ethical, financial, and scientific challenges in preclinical research. By combining cutting-edge 2D and 3D stem cell techniques with bioengineering innovations, we create human-relevant tissue models that not only replicate individual organs but also simulate organ-to-organ interactions. These next-gen models, guided by the 3R principles (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement), offer a more reliable platform for drug screening and therapeutic testing compared to traditional methods. (Stevens Group, Ye Group, Nair Group)

As a part of the Oxford Organoid Hub, we focus on brain and cardiac organoids, using smart scaffolds to guide their development and maturation. This approach allows us to better model human biology and disease, improving the accuracy of therapeutic evaluations. We’re also working to scale these technologies for faster, more sophisticated drug screening and disease modelling, helping to speed up the discovery process. (Stevens Group)

Characterisation of lumen formation during brain organoid development on a microfibrous scaffold, using markers to highlight cell structure, apical proteins, and cell nuclei. Figure from https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202300305.

We apply Raman imaging as a powerful, label-free, non-destructive method for analysing cells and organoids. Recent advances in Raman imaging technology now offer resolution and accuracy comparable to traditional immunostaining, but without the need for fixation, enabling non-invasive, longitudinal monitoring of cells, organoids, and tissues over time. This technique is highly automatable, making it ideal for high-throughput pharmaceutical screening and validation. We also integrate Raman imaging with other methods, such as cryo electron microscopy, along with proteomic and transcriptomic analysis. Enhanced by machine learning and AI-driven data interpretation, these combined approaches provide in-depth insights into tissue organisation and behaviour, helping us develop more predictive, human-based in vitro models. (Stevens Group)