ESR 12

Name: Lucchetti Mara

Host Organisation: University of Luxembourg

Project Title: Integration of iPSC-derived epithelial cells and of on-chip TEER measurement in the HuMiX gut model.

Objectives of the project

The objective of this project is to further develop the Human Microbial Crosstalk (HuMiX) model. This gut-on-a-chip model enables proximal co-culture of microbial cells, epithelial cells, and other mammalian cells, e.g., immune cells. The main working tasks are:

  1. to establish protocols for obtaining iPSC-based intestinal epithelial cell cultures;
  2. to integrate iPSC-based intestinal epithelial cell cultures in HuMiX;
  3. to conceptualise, design, and fabricate an on-chip TEER measurement system.

Secondments

  • Uppsala Universitet, Sweden for 2 months;
  • Universitaetsklinikum Jena, Germany for 3 months;
  • Transgene SA, France for 2 months.

Short Biography

I obtained my Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at the Université catholique de Louvain in Belgium. During my studies, I developed a strong interest for the world of microorganisms and their interactions with their host. This is why I decided to investigate the roles of a specific host restriction factor in the replication cycle of HIV during my Master thesis. Following this path, I am excited to have now joined the Wilmes lab. As part of my PhD studies in the fascinating EUROoC ITN, I will integrate iPSC-derived epithelial cells and an on-chip TEER measurement in the HuMiX model. I am eager to contribute to the development of this gut-on-a-chip model which will help us to further our understanding of human host-microbe interactions and the influence of these interactions on human health.

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