Gastrointestinal Epithelium Modeling (GEM) Program

The Gastrointestinal Epithelium Modeling (GEM) Program is a collaborative research effort designed to accelerate discovery and innovation using patient-derived organoids (PDO). The GEM Program supports bi-directional, bench-to-bedside research with the goal of developing new therapies for pediatric gastrointestinal diseases. As part of the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, the GEM Program is comprised of scientists and clinicians committed to investigating the pathophysiology of diseases including eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Hirschsprung disease and celiac disease.

What We Do

Researchers at the GEM Program:

• Generate and maintain a living biobank of PDOs with matched original tissue and blood specimens
• Collaborate on innovation-driven projects that encompass human gastrointestinal epithelial cell biology 
• Develop and provide access to specialized protocols, reagents and PDOs
• Develop and conduct functional assays utilizing PDOs

Who We Are

The GEM Program is Co-Directed by Amanda Muir, MD, and Kathryn E. Hamilton, PhD, established experts in the use of patient-derived organoids. Tatiana Karakasheva, PhD, is the Associate Director.