Amniotic derived cell based therapy for restoration of damaged discarded organs for clinical transplantation

Purpose and goal:

Organ transplantation remains a vital tool against end-stage disease, yet it remains hindered by a severe scarcity of organs. Deemed a public health crisis, the World Health Organization remarks that just 10% of the global demand for organ transplantation is being met. The overall purpose of this research project is to build a platform to develop and test cell therapies using amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells (A-MSCs).

Expected results and effects:

In this project we will demonstrate proof of concept of A-MSC therapy for restoration of damaged and discarded donor lungs with the objectives of expanding the donor lung pool for transplantation and reducing the incidence of primary graft dysfunction (PGD) in graft recipients to improve survival. By elucidating the mechanisms underlying A-MSC treatment, we will build a strong knowledge base around this type of biological drug, expand on our understanding of the effectiveness of cell therapies for this patient population, and potentially uncover new biomarkers for PGD.

Approach and implementation:

We will work with to prepare for a clinical trial, ensuring future healthcare opportunities to receive this new biological drug. Based on the platform that we create in this project, A-MSCs will eventually be expanded to include restoration of other donor organs such as damaged kidneys, livers, and hearts.