Whenever stem cells make the news, it is usually because of the controversy that arises over using embryonic stem cells. UB researchers are putting an end to that.
A research project at UB has found that mesenchymal stem cells can be engineered to prevent them from aging in culture. These cells are normally found in adult bone marrow, and once changed, they become MSC Universal cells.
When using stem cells in research or treatment, the aging and potency of the cells is always an issue. Fresh stem cells need to be harvested from the bone marrow in an expensive and tedious procedure. The donor quality also varies as these cells naturally lose potency as a subject ages.
Now the MSC Universal cells can be stored and utilized in culture, which broadens how these cells can be beneficial.
"[This means] an unlimited supply of stem cells. Every batch of cells is consistent and cost efficient," said Te-Chung Lee, head of the research project and associate professor of biochemistry and biomedical engineering in the School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. "This is basically an unlimited supply of medicine."
The stem cells function by releasing growth factors that stimulate regeneration of many types of cells.
Lee and his research team recently found success with rebuilding heart muscle. By injecting the mesenchymal cells into skeletal muscle, growth factors were released which resulted in heart repair. This is a new technique that bypasses directly injecting stem cells into a damaged organ and involves a less invasive procedure.
The MSC Universal cells have the potential to improve treatment for numerous ailments. And importantly, they do not cause the formation of tumors when differentiating and stimulating growth.
"Once again, [benefits] are unlimited. The cells can improve treatment for strokes, heart disease and immune diseases," Lee said. "Almost everything, with the exception of cancer will see the benefits that the MSC Universal cells provide."
Mesenchymal cells from any donor can be used to generate a MSC Universal line tailored to that individual.
"Some people may prefer to use their own specific cells in treatment and they are able to with their own MSC Universal line," Lee said.
The university has applied for a patent for Lee's work and companies have shown commercial interest in this revolutionary breakthrough. The Office of Science, Technology Transfer and Economic Outreach is handling the license agreements with any potential companies.
