Dynamic42 and EPO Close the Gap in Brain Cancer Research
Strategic collaboration integrates organ-on-chip technology into preclinical glioblastoma research to improve translational relevance
One of the key challenges in brain cancer research is the limited availability of preclinical models. Dynamic42 GmbH, based in Jena, Germany, and EPO Experimental Pharmacology & Oncology Berlin-Buch GmbH are addressing this gap through a new strategic collaboration that brings organ-on-chip technologies closer to the core of preclinical drug development.
The partnership connects Dynamic42’s organ-on-chip platforms with EPO’s expertise in translational oncology and access to well-characterized tumor models and patient-derived material. Together, the teams are developing experimental setups designed to reflect human tumor biology more faithfully and generate data that translates more reliably into clinical outcomes.
The first joint projects target glioblastoma and the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Using Dynamic42’s human-based BBB-on-chip model, the partners explore how differences between human and non-human BBB-biology can influence therapeutic responses, which is a major factor for limited activity of brain cancer drugs.
“Too often, critical decisions in drug development rely on data that do not fully reflect human biology,” says Dr. Thomas Sommermann, Head of Cancer Research at Dynamic42. “We want to change that. By bringing human-based models earlier into the process, we can sharpen decision-making and reduce late-stage failure risks.”
“For us, this collaboration is about strengthening the translational link,” adds Jens Hoffmann, CEO at EPO. “Integrating advanced in vitro systems allows us to look at tumor biology from a different angle and to build robust experimental in vivo strategies.”
The collaboration is designed as a complementary approach that connects established preclinical in vivo expertise with emerging human-based in vitro technologies. It supports more targeted, biology-driven research strategies and the principles of the 3Rs (Replace, Reduce, Refine), contributing to the ongoing shift toward more human-relevant experimental systems.
Beyond joint research, the partnership includes model development activities, elaboration of commercialization strategies and close scientific exchange, including collaboration between early-career researchers from both organizations.
Dynamic42 and EPO will jointly present first results of their collaboration at the American Association for Cancer Research® Annual Meeting 2026. Visitors are invited to meet the teams at booth #536 to discuss ongoing work and collaboration opportunities.
Both companies plan to expand the collaboration further, exploring additional indications and extending the use of organ-on-chip technologies across different areas of drug development.
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