Therapeutic/Technology: Donor cell therapy
Microgel encapsulated iPSC-derived notochordal cells to treat intervertebral disc degeneration and low back pain
Research Objective We aim to discover an injectable, rejuvenating treatment for painful intervertebral disc degeneration using microtissue-encapsulated iPSC-derived notochordal cells (iNCs) using large animal model Impact Our treatment candidate may allow for a non-invasive stem cell therapy, targeting the underlying pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration, the leading cause of chronic back pain in adults. Major […]
A treatment for Rett syndrome using glial-restricted neural progenitor cells
Research Objective We developed a novel glial-restricted neural progenitor cells transplantation strategy as a treatment for Rett syndrome, reverting neuronal alterations caused by genetic mutations. Impact There are no disease-modifying therapies for Rett syndrome. Our therapeutic, if successful, will be a first-in-class treatment for this devastating neurological disorder and potentially others. Major Proposed Activities Characterization […]
Bioengineering human stem cell-derived beta cell organoids to monitor cell health in real time and improve therapeutic outcomes in patients
Research Objective We will generate nanoprobe-containing stem cell-derived human beta cells that can be monitored in real time in response to inflammatory stress upon transplantation in patients with type 1 diabetes. Impact Our product will replace donor islets for cell replacement therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes, and will provide a readout of cell […]
Meniscal Repair and Regeneration
Research Objective Stem cells are seeded into fibers spun out of collagen to fabricate tissue that resembles the knee meniscus Impact Meniscal tears are very common but do not heal. The treatment is removal of the torn tissue, which leads to osteoarthritis. If successful, replacing the tissue will prevent osteoarthritis. Major Proposed Activities Establish the […]
Development of a new therapeutic for directing target specific stem cell migration and treatment
Research Objective A drug-stem cell combination therapy wherein the drug will direct and promote the delivery and distribution of stem cells to the disease site for the optimal therapeutic effect of the stem cells Impact Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the way to deliver and enhance stem cell-based treatment of ALS Major Proposed Activities Complete […]
Building a hiPSC-based biopacemaker
Research Objective A proof-of-concept biopacemaker constructed by bioprinting hiPSC-derived pacemaking cells and support cells based on the blueprint of the native pacemaking tissue of a large mammalian heart. Impact A hiPSC-based biopacemaker bioprinted using a design of the native pacemaking tissue in the heart, with protective electrical and mechanical insulations, can better sustain the pacemaking […]
Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived glial enriched progenitors to treat white matter stroke and vascular dementia.
Research Objective This grant proposes development of a stem cell based therapy that is derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells. These cells are in the form of a brain support cell, an astrocyte. Impact The cell candidate will treat vascular dementia, the second leading cause of dementia, and stroke by overcoming a bottleneck in […]
Optimization of a human interneuron cell therapy for traumatic brain injury
Research Objective A cell therapy product comprised of inhibitory neurons that can migrate, integrate and restore neurologic function after traumatic brain injury. Impact Traumatic brain injury Major Proposed Activities Examine the most effective dose and safety profile of human iPSC-derived MGE cells grafted into rodent hippocampus. Determine whether human iPSC-derived MGE cells mature into appropriate […]
Transplantation of Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived Microglia for the Treatment of Adult-onset Leukoencephalopathy (HDLS/ALSP)
Research Objective We propose to investigate the transplantation of pluripotent stem cell derived microglia as a potential therapy for the devastating neurological disease; Adult-onset leukoencephalopathy (ALSP/HDLS). Impact The most immediately impacted condition will be ALSP. However, further examination of the safety of human microglial transplantation will have broad implications for many neurodegenerative disorders Major Proposed […]
The First Orally Delivered Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Research Objective The goal of this project is to develop the first ORAL cell therapy as a breakthrough treatment for inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. Impact We engineered a new way to deliver cells ORALLY instead of by injection. In doing so, we will better reach the inflamed tissues and provide a much-needed new treatment for […]