Human pluripotent stem cells to study early panceratic carcinogenesis: from tailored protocols via organoids to bioprinted tubes

My lab has developed novel strategies to investigate early pancreatic carcinogenesis by utilizing human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to create pancreatic duct-like organoids (PDLOs) and advanced bioprinted ductal tubes. We differentiated hPSCs into PDLOs exhibiting characteristics of human pancreatic ducts, enabling the study of oncogenic mutations such as KRAS and GNAS in a controlled environment. Leveraging time-resolved single-cell transcriptomics and 3D bioprinting techniques, we demonstrated enhanced structural integrity, cellular organization, and maturation of bioprinted models compared to traditional organoids. Our findings reveal distinct phenotypic responses to oncogenic stimuli and underscore the potential of these models for advancing research into pancreatic plasticity, dysplasia, and cancer, as well as developing targeted therapeutic strategies.