Study and Bioengineering of natural rubber latex-derived extracellular vesicles: a novel targeted molecule delivery system with high potential for Regenerative Medicine

• Grant number: 23/12304-6
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
• Start date: March 01, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2030
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - Bioengineering
• Principal Investigator: Juliana Ferreira Floriano
• Grantee: Juliana Ferreira Floriano
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências (FC). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Bauru. Bauru , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Carlos Frederico de Oliveira Graeff ; Costanza Emanueli ; Katashi Okoshi ; Lino Ferreira ; Lucilene Delazari dos Santos ; Marilza Vieira Cunha Rudge ; Martin Vila Petroff ; Rondinelli Donizetti Herculano ; Sérgio Pereira ; Ursula Paula Renó Soci ; Ziani de Souza Schiaber
• Associated scholarship(s): 25/06421-5 - Characterization of Plasma Extracellular Vesicles in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Advances in Biomarkers and Perspectives for Maternal-Fetal Care, BP.IC; 25/07334-9 - Optimization of Isolation and Characterization of LN-PDEVs in Regenerative Medicine., BP.TT; 25/03384-1 - Study and Bioengineering of Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Natural Latex: New Targeted Molecule Delivery System with High Potential for Regenerative Medicine., BP.JP

Abstract

Regenerative medicine aims to restore damaged tissues. However, this research area faces significant challenges in transitioning to effective therapies in clinical practice, following the "bench to bedside" principle. In this context, extracellular vesicles (EVs) emerge as promising agents due to their ability to transport bioactive molecules and modulate cellular processes. The present project proposes a comprehensive investigation into the therapeutic potential of natural latex-derived extracellular vesicles (LN-PDEVs), also known as LN-VEDPs, in regenerative medicine, focusing on the delivery of microRNAs (miRNAs) directly to cardiac and skeletal muscle cells, promoting tissue regeneration. The overall goal of this pioneering research is to advance the knowledge of LN-PDEVs and develop potential translational clinical treatments that are more accessible and viable in Brazil, while fulfilling all stages of pre-clinical screening for regulatory approval. Specific objectives include isolating, characterizing, and investigating LN-PDEVs for regenerative medicine applications, particularly in muscle and heart diseases. MiRNA delivery strategies will be developed to modulate gene expression and optimize LN-PDEV-based therapy. Bioengineering, 3D bioprinting, and surface functionalization will also be integrated to optimize LN-PDEVs, creating bioinspired and bioengineered LN-PDEVs (LN-EV-miR-BE e LN-MBPs). The methodology encompasses acquisition, characterization, and bioengineering, aiming to gain a detailed understanding of the bioactive and regenerative properties of LN-PDEVs, including bioinspired and bioengineered variants. Effective delivery of miRNAs encapsulated in LN-EV-miR-BE could open new therapeutic perspectives for treating complex medical conditions. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the project aims to contribute to the development of more effective and safer therapies, advancing the field of regenerative medicine and benefiting society as a whole. LN-PDEVs may represent an innovative therapeutic approach, offering efficacy and accessibility. (AU)