Functional Fibers for Ex Vivo Expansion of Stem and Progenitor Cells

Need
Umbilical cord blood is a promising alternative source of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) for allogeneic and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for the treatment of a variety of hematological disorders and as supportive therapy for malignant diseases. However, the low number of HSPCs obtainable from a single donor restricts its widespread application as a viable source of cells in adults.

Technology Overview
This invention describes a novel method for efficient ex vivo expansion of hematopoietic cells in adults. The functional scaffolds consist of polymer fibers with diameters ranging from tens of nanometers to hundreds of nanometers and are usually prepared by electrospinning. The polymer fibers are modified with surface functional groups (amino groups and cell adhesion peptides). The polymers can be degradable and non-biodegradable. The scaffolds described can provide adhesion and support the proliferation and phenotype maintenance of stem cells.

Stage of Development
JHU researchers have developed a method that could improve the clinical utility of HSPC-based therapies.  

Publications
Chua, KN et al. Biomaterials. 2006 Dec; 27(36):6043-51.
 

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