Apoptosis in mesenchymal stem cell therapy

Background: Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are fibroblastic precursor cells that have the stem cell-like ability to expand in culture and differentiate into a variety of cell types. MSCs are endowed with potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, and are being used in over 500 clinical trials to treat various inflammatory conditions. However, MSCs do not survive for long after infusion, raising the question of how these short-lived cells may exert long-term clinical efficacy. Our research has identified key immune interactions that underlie the therapeutic effects of MSCs. Project aim/s: This project aims to discover how the immune system impacts on MSC survival, function and therapeutic efficacy. The findings will have broad implications for the future development of MSC-based therapies. Techniques: This project will utilise techniques applicable to both immunology and stem cell research, including stem cell isolation, cell/tissue culture, multiparameter and imaging flow cytometry, cutting edge gene editing, in vivo bioluminescence imaging, mouse disease models etc.