About
Project Ex Vivo
Learning cell state and tumor microenvironment archetypes
We are developing AI models to map the expression states and spatial interactions of the in vivo tumor microenvironment. To this end, we are generating new single-cell and spatial transcriptomics datasets of tumor specimens from a variety of cancer subtypes.
Optimizing ex vivo models
Today’s lab model systems of cancer, including cell lines and patient-derived spheroid or organoid models, are incomplete and often unfaithful representations of in vivo biology. We are building new experimental methods to scale, engineer, and test ex vivo models that more faithfully simulate in vivo tumor biology. By measuring and mapping how cell states across these models relate to function, we are creating first-in-class datasets that will provide a basis for optimization of faithful, personalized ex vivo models of cancer.
Designing state-specific precision therapies
A learned map of in vivo and ex vivo cell states provides a new therapeutic search space. Using our data on how cell states map to function across cancers, we are developing computational methods to infer state-specific vulnerabilities that could be targeted therapeutically. This enables us to nominate new therapeutic approaches that target specific cell states. Our ultimate vision is to work towards a new paradigm that integrates genetic and non-genetic attributes for therapy selection in precision oncology.
