Florian Tran
Translational and Molecular Gastroenterology
Lab Vision
Imagine a future where patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) no longer face a mystery in their medical journey. We envision a world where the unpredictable twists and turns of their disease become clear pathways based on their unique biology.
This vision drives our pursuit to understand the molecular basis of individual response to advanced therapies. By harnessing the power of omics and biomarkers, we aim to stratify patients into distinct molecular groups. This will allow us to tailor therapeutic approaches with unprecedented precision, empowering each patient to optimize their fate and reclaim control over their health.
Our Mission: Deciphering the intricate fingerprint of IBD
We will unveil the mosaics of IBD by:
- Dissecting the molecular landscape of IBD patients, identifying and characterizing distinct sub-groups using sequencing- and imaging-based technologies.
- Exploring spatial heterogeneity in intestinal tissue in IBD, revealing the complexities within a single person over time.
- Linking these molecular profiles with clinical phenotypes like disease course and response to therapy, by integrating patient-reported outcomes captured through cutting-edge digital health tools.
By illuminating this intricate map of IBD, we envision a future where clinicians, guided by the dual compass of molecular data and patient-reported experiences, make informed, personalized treatment decisions for each patient. This paves the way for IBD patients to embark on a personalized path towards optimal health and well-being, actively engaged in their healthcare journey through digital tools and open communication.
Approach
A robust foundation: Access to large-scale IBD cohorts
In collaboration with the groups of Stefan Schreiber and Philip Rosenstiel, we established large-scale longitudinal cohorts of IBD patients undergoing advanced therapies. This continuous effort ensures access to high-quality biomaterials, allowing us to apply the aforementioned technologies to a significant number of patients.
Exploring the molecular tapestry of IBD
Our group leverages cutting-edge molecular tools, including single-cell sequencing and spatial omics platforms housed within the CCGA and Single Cell and Spatial Technologies facility. This allows us to decipher the complex cell-to-cell interactions within tissues, pinpointing the unique molecular signatures of specific cell types within distinct microenvironments.
We employ sophisticated ex vivo models, utilizing human IBD mucosa organoids and co-culture methods to replicate the disease environment outside the body. These models allow us to test our hypotheses and refine our understanding of IBD.
Patient-centric focus
Beyond the molecular level, we delve into the individual patient experience, capturing symptom details, functional limitations, and real-time data through digital health tools. This multifaceted approach is key to identifying clinically relevant molecular links and developing truly personalized treatment strategies.
Main Projects / Funding
