Přehled

Supervisor: Zuzana Sumbalová Koledová

Project description

This project focuses on the development of innovative human mammary organoids as an advanced in vitro model to investigate breast morphogenesis, a fundamental process in mammary gland development and a critical factor in breast cancer progression. The aims are to optimize protocols for generating human mammary organoids that faithfully recapitulate key aspects of mammary gland morphogenesis, including branching morphogenesis, epithelial differentiation, and hormonal responsiveness. Using advanced imaging methodologies such as confocal microscopy and live-cell imaging, the structural organization and dynamic behavior of these organoids will be characterized in unprecedented detail. Molecular profiling techniques, including transcriptomics and proteomics, will provide insights into the regulatory networks and signaling pathways governing mammary organoid development.

By integrating these approaches, the study seeks to address critical gaps in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying breast development and disease. The resulting human mammary organoids will serve as a robust platform for studying breast cancer initiation and progression, offering a more physiologically relevant alternative to traditional models. Ultimately, this work has the potential to drive the development of more effective therapeutic strategies for breast cancer, a disease that remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide.

Candidate profile

Strong interest in developmental biology, mammary gland biology, or cancer research,
Master’s degree in biological sciences, biotechnology, or a related field,
Highly motivated, independent thinker with a strong commitment to scientific Discovery,
Excellent organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, with the ability to maintain thorough experimental records,
Strong proficiency in cell culture techniques, preferably with experience in 3D culture systems or organoids,
Experience with advanced imaging methodologies, such as confocal microscopy or live-cell imaging, is highly desirable,
Familiarity with molecular profiling techniques, including transcriptomics or proteomics, will be viewed positively,
Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment,
Strong written and verbal communication skills for data presentation and manuscript preparation,
Commitment to personal and professional development, with a proactive approach to learning new techniques,
Prior experience with mammary gland research will be considered an advantage.

Suggested reading

Sumbal J, Sumbalova Koledova Z. Fibroblast-epithelium co-culture methods using epithelial organoids and cell line-derived spheroids. In: Sumbalova Koledova Z (eds) 3D Cell Culture. Methods in Molecular Biology 2024, vol. 2764, Humana, New York, pp.107 – 129.
Sumbal J, Fre S, Sumbalova Koledova Z: Fibroblast-induced mammary epithelial branching depends on fibroblast contractility. PLoS Bio. 2024; 22(1):e3002093.
Sumbal J, Gudjonsson T, Traustadottir GA, Koledova Z: An organotypic assay to study epithelial-fibroblast interactions in human breast. In: Vivanco, M.d. (eds) Mammary Stem Cells. Methods in Molecular Biology 2022, vol. 2471, Humana, New York, pp. 283 – 299.
Sumbal J, Chiche A, Charifou E, Koledova Z, Li H: Primary mammary organoid model of lactation and involution. Front Cell Dev Biol. 2020; 8: 68.

APPLY AT: img.cas.cz/phd