Optimization of In Vitro and Growth Assays for Therapeutic Development.

Infection with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) is a complication of lung disease in immunocompromised patients, including those with human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis (CF). The most widespread, disease-causing NTM is complex (), which colonizes the lungs as a combination of , , and other mycobacterial species. While combination drug therapy exists for colonization, there is no cure.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Soluble Mediators and Cystic Fibrosis.

Human Mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) secrete products (supernatants) that are anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. We have previously shown that hMSCs decrease inflammation and infection in the murine model of Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease in which pulmonary infection and inflammation becomes the major cause of morbidity and mortality.