Tyrosine-Mutant AAV8 Vector Mediated Efficient and Safe Gene Transfer of Pigment Epithelium-Derived Factor to Mouse Lungs.

Background/aims: Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAV) are an important tool for lung targeted gene therapy. Substitution of tyrosine with phenylalanine residues (Y-F) in the capsid have been shown to protect the AAV vector from ubiquitin/proteasome degradation, increasing transduction efficiency. We tested the mutant Y733F-AAV8 vector for mucus diffusion, as well as the safety and efficacy of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) gene transfer to the lung.

Mesenchymal stromal cells protect against vascular damage and depression-like behavior in mice surviving cerebral malaria.

Background: Malaria is one of the most critical global infectious diseases. Severe systemic inflammatory diseases, such as cerebral malaria, lead to the development of cognitive and behavioral alterations, such as learning disabilities and loss of memory capacity, as well as increased anxiety and depression. The consequences are profound and usually contribute to reduce the patient's quality of life.

Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Protect the Blood-Brain Barrier, Reduce Astrogliosis, and Prevent Cognitive and Behavioral Alterations in Surviving Septic Mice.

Objectives: Survivors of sepsis are frequently left with significant cognitive and behavioral impairments. These complications derive from nonresolving inflammation that persists following hospital discharge. To date, no study has investigated the effects of mesenchymal stromal cell therapy on the blood-brain barrier, astrocyte activation, neuroinflammation, and cognitive and behavioral alterations in experimental sepsis.