Cell Delivery Systems
Cell delivery systems represent a new area of research for our Division that combines our expertise in biopharmaceuticals and tissue engineering. A range of new therapies that use cells as the active species are approaching the clinic. Our Division is one of the first to consider the challenges posed in the administration of these fragile systems. We are quantifiying the effect of various storage and administration stresses on cells. This information is being used to design novel delivery systems that protect cells during administration and optimise their functionality within the body.
Professor Kevin Shakesheff and collaborators at King’s College London and RegenTec Ltd are developing microparticle based systems that act as hosts for cell expansion and delivery. Integrin-based cell adhesion to these microparticles allows the cells to proliferate. Delivery systems for treatment of stroke, Parkinson’s Disease and bone regeneration are under development.
Dr Snow Stolnik has developed a new range of cell delivery systems that gel in situ. These materials are being developed for the delivery of chondrocytes for cartilage repair.