Revolution in cancer therapy: The digital twin for colon cancer patients!

Revolution in cancer therapy: The digital twin for colon cancer patients!

A novel project that is taking place at the University of Bonn and ESQlabs is developing, aims to revolutionize the treatment of colorectal cancer patients. As part of the “ISPOT-K” project, a digital twin is created for each patient in order to put treatment on a personalized basis. This initiative is particularly significant because colorectal cancer progresses differently from person to person and conventional therapies often do not have the desired effect.

Traditional cancer therapies are based on demographic and biological factors such as age, gender, cancer type and genetic information. However, these data do not provide precise indications of individual response to treatments. To close this gap, researchers are using 3D organoids grown from patient tumor tissue. These organoids are then exposed to various anticancer drugs to predict patients' response.

Data integration and computer modeling

The project follows a data-driven process in which the data from the 3D organoids is combined with molecular and physical patient data. The computer-aided modeling takes place at the Bonn Center for Mathematical Life Sciences and focuses on modeling intracellular signaling pathways as well as drug reactions and uncertainties. According to information from Fraunhofer IZI This approach enables a detailed analysis of tumor responses to different treatments and supports the development of optimal dosing strategies.

The vision of the project covers the entire process from organoid testing to in silico simulation. This methodology has the potential to not only reduce the cost of cancer therapies, but also reduce the need for animal testing, as toxic side effects and treatment effectiveness can first be tested in the laboratory and through computer-based simulations.

Expansion through digital twins

Another innovative approach that is gaining importance in cancer research is the virtual twin, which is increasingly being used in the treatment of cancer patients. For example, the EU project CERTAINTY is developing a virtual twin for patients with multiple myeloma that will improve personalized treatment by incorporating numerous clinical, imaging and molecular data. The DKFZ emphasizes that the virtual twin represents a digital representation of a patient's specific characteristics and allows for regular updating to provide predictions about the course of the disease and various treatment options.

The integration of such modules will help doctors select the best possible therapy for their patients, which could not only improve individual treatment but also the efficiency of the healthcare system. The research also refers to socioeconomic factors that can influence the course of the disease, which underlines the holistic approach of personalized medicine.