The Department of Medical Biotechnology, headed by Prof. Dr. Sina Bartfeld, develops 3D culture models based on human stem cells, so-called "organoids". Using organoids and organ-on-a-chip technology, we emulate tissues in physiology and pathology, mainly in the digestive tract and bone marrow. The group explores the molecular basis of disease, with a focus on host cell responses to gastrointestinal tract infections and (infection-related) cancer development. While asking basic mechanistic questions about infections, the innate immune response, and carcinogenesis, the group is always striving to improve in vitro models.