Affiliation
Munich University Hospital (LMU)
Contact
Augenklinik
Mathildenstr. 8
D-80336 München
Phone:
+49 (0)89 - 2180 -77325
Fax:
+49 (0)89 - 2180 -77326
Email:
michalakis@lmu.de
Website:
https://www.lmu-klinikum.de/augenklinik/forschung/gentherapie/1305646bdc184d5c
Research Focus
Engineered adeno-associated virus-based vectors for retinal gene therapy - Mechanistic studies on cellular infection, trafficking and transduction
Project description:
This project explores gene therapy approaches for vascular and retinal diseases using advanced organoid models and retinal explants. The student will generate and maintain human vascular organoids, retinal organoids, and combined vascular-retinal organoids from stem cells and/or retinal explants. These cultures will serve as platforms to test adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotypes for efficient and targeted gene delivery.
The student will learn and apply techniques including organoid culture, viral vector transduction, immunofluorescence staining, quantitative PCR, retinal explant culture and confocal microscopy. The internship involves side-by-side comparisons of multiple AAV serotypes to determine their cell specificity, transduction efficiency, and gene expression outcomes in different tissues.
Learning objectives include gaining hands-on experience with organoid technology, retinal explants, understanding AAV biology, and mastering key molecular and imaging methods. The student will plan experiments under supervision, analyze results, and participate in data interpretation and troubleshooting.
Supervisor: Franz Kynast