Therapeutic potential of extracellular vesicles from different mesenchymal stem cell subtypes

Human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are found in adult tissues such as bone marrow and are able to differentiate into bone, cartilage and fat tissues. There is intense interest in determining how MSCs may be used in future cell-based therapies, including gene therapy and tissue engineering, and as in vitro models for fundamental research and drug discovery. However, little is known about MSC identity and research is often performed on heterogeneous mixtures of different MSC sub-populations. Using a process of telomerase-based immortalisation and cell cloning, we have generated several different MSC lines that represent different “types” of MSCs. We have identified MSC subtypes that have potent tissue regeneration capacity and others that do not differentiate but are immuno-suppressive. These functional differences are reflected in the products they secrete, including extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs are nano-sized, membrane-bound structures that carry RNAs and proteins to mediate intercellular communication. Therefore EVs may provide a valuable and flexible alternative to cell-based therapy. This project will examine the characteristics of MSC sub-populations and identify how specialised EVs may be developed for clinical use. We will examine EV mechanism of action and determine how EVs may be engineered to carry additional cargoes. We will also perform important preclinical tests to identify appropriate disease targets. As our MSC parent lines are immortalised, we have the real opportunity to develop scaled-up procedures to ease clinical translation.

The York Biomedical Research Institute at the University of York is committed to recruiting extraordinary future scientists regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, religion/belief, marital status, pregnancy and maternity, or career pathway to date. We understand that commitment and excellence can be shown in many ways and have built our recruitment process to reflect this. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in science, who have curiosity, creativity and a drive to learn new skills.

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