A team led by Prof. Sina Bartfeld from the Technical University of Berlin, Department of Medical Biotechnology, has developed an intestinal organoid model that can be used to investigate the infection route of the bacterial intestinal pathogen EPEC (enteropathogenic Escherichia coli). As a result, the scientists were able to identify an effective, natural defense mechanism of the intestinal mucosal cells. 

The Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has published a draft opinion on the reliability and reproducibility of a new animal-free methodology in preclinical research. This methodology replaces animal control groups conducted in parallel with animal testing by virtual control groups. This is intended to reduce the total number of laboratory animals—usually rats—used in dose-finding studies. 

Each year, four outstanding doctoral students from around the world are selected for the Science & SciLifeLab Prize. In addition to prize money of up to $30,000, the winners will be invited to SciLifeLab in Stockholm in December, where they can present their research findings, network with leading scientists, and celebrate science through a series of unique events.

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Home Affairs (BMLEH) has announced the 2026 Animal Welfare Research Award in two categories. The nomination deadline has been extended to April 12, 2026.