Abstract

Engineering Stem Cell-derived EVs For Local Delivery and Therapeutic Applications

Aijun Wang, Associate Professor, Director of Translational Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, University of California-Davis

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a significant role in cell-to-cell communication. In our previous studies, we have confirmed that EVs secreted by placental mesenchymal stem cells (PMSC-EVs) exert significant neuroprotective functions similar in magnitude to live PMSCs. In this presentation, I will discuss what we have learned about PMSC-EVs and the potential mechanisms of action on how PMSC-EVs are protecting neurons. Recently, we have also developed various approaches to improve MSC-EV’s yield and efficacy, and designed biomaterials-based delivery vehicles to improve MSC-EVs stability, retention and targeted delivery. In summary, we are developing and engineering stem cell-derived EVs into a cell-free, off-the-shelf, and easy-to-use therapeutic modality for various disease treatment and regenerative medicine applications.