Research
Neuropia investigates mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) as potential therapeutic approaches for neurological disease. Multiple sclerosis is our main disease focus, with broader interests in other neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s disease.
Mesenchymal stem 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; they do not establish clinical benefit.
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. Its published title uses the term “exosomes”; we use EVs as the broader term here.
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.
The trial did not detect a neuroregenerative effect on its primary outcome and reported safety concerns. It underlines the need to evaluate cell-based approaches carefully, alongside continued research into mechanisms and alternatives such as MSC-derived EVs.