Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells. We study the biological properties of MSCs and how they may be modified to support neural protection and repair. Our work includes laboratory studies of neural and glial differentiation, protein expression, and MSC effects in experimental demyelination models.
Recent studies examine neural and glial differentiation of bone marrow MSCs and MSCs in a mouse model of demyelination. These laboratory findings inform further research.
Extracellular vesicles. EVs are membrane-enclosed particles released by cells that carry proteins, nucleic acids, and other molecules. We are interested in how MSC-derived EVs influence inflammation and tissue repair, and whether they could support future cell-free therapeutic approaches in MS.
Group members have reviewed MSC-derived vesicles as potential treatments for MS and brain-derived blood biomarkers, including EVs. The therapeutic review discusses preclinical evidence and the challenges of moving toward clinical trials.
From mechanisms to clinical research. Understanding therapeutic potential also requires testing safety and efficacy in people. Members contributed to SMART-MS, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of intrathecal MSCs in progressive MS.
Mesenchymal stromal cells & EVs
Harnessing the immunomodulatory and regenerative properties of mesenchymal stromal cell-derived extracellular vesicles for neurological repair.
Lipid nanoparticles
Engineering and studying lipid-based delivery systems to enhance the targeting and cargo of therapeutic vesicles and nanoparticles.
Neuronal & mesenchymal cultures
Advanced in vitro models of neuronal and mesenchymal stromal cells to dissect mechanisms of disease and therapeutic response.
Clinical translation
Bridging laboratory findings toward clinical research, including work on multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease.
