Fides Zenk of EPFL has received the 2024 3Rs Award from the Swiss 3R Competence Centre (3RCC) for her groundbreaking work using human brain organoids to study early neurodevelopment. Her research provides a powerful new approach to understanding how genes are regulated during early brain formation—a key to unlocking the mechanisms behind neurodevelopmental disorders.

Traditionally, such studies have relied heavily on animal models, especially mice, which often fall short in mimicking human-specific biology. Zenk’s work challenges that norm. By mapping epigenetic changes at single-cell resolution in lab-grown miniature human brains—known as organoids—her team has developed a human-relevant, animal-free model that is both scalable and scientifically precise. Reviewers praised the project for “bringing a high-quality human-based approach to a field that has historically relied heavily on animal use.” In Switzerland and across Europe, tens of thousands of mice are used annually in epigenetics and neurodevelopmental research.

Zenk’s approach has the potential to dramatically reduce this number and set a new standard for human-relevant neuroscience. “I’m honoured to receive this year’s 3RCC Award, which recognises our commitment to developing brain organoid models to study the epigenetic mechanisms underlying human neurodevelopmental disorders”, said Dr. Zenk. “Our goal is to generate knowledge that serves human neuroscience. By applying single-cell technologies to human brain organoids, we aim to uncover molecular processes in a human-relevant context—bridging and expanding upon insights previously gained from animal models. Ultimately, we hope to contribute to the development of reliable and accessible in vitro systems for neuroscience research.” She added: “I’m grateful to the Swiss 3RCC and the reviewers for their recognition of my work. It’s very motivating to see the value placed on human-based approaches and science communication. The 3RCC’s efforts to promote innovative, ethical, and high-quality research are very inspiring. They play a crucial role in advancing more human-relevant science while reducing reliance on animal models — a mission that I fully support and am proud to contribute to.”