Muscle Repair in Focus: A Scientific Dissemination Project on Gene and Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Muscle Injuries

• Grant number: 24/00290-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Journalism
• Start date: May 01, 2024
• End date: April 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Pharmacology - Biochemical and Molecular Pharmacology
• Principal Investigator: Roberta Sessa Stilhano Yamaguchi
• Grantee: Leticia Sayuri Yada
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo (FCMSCSP). Fundação Arnaldo Vieira de Carvalho. São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 19/10922-9 - Gene and cell therapy via alginate microgels for muscle injuries, AP.JP

Abstract

This scientific dissemination project aims to make knowledge about Gene Therapy accessible to different audiences. Recognizing the complexity and innovation of the topic in research, there is awareness of the difficulty faced by the lay public when trying to understand such content. Hence the crucial need for dissemination, using accessible terminology and presenting the content in an engaging way.Despite the revolutionary potential of Gene Therapy in the treatment of genetic diseases, there is still considerable fear among the population regarding the effects of the therapy, which is often devoid of scientific basis. In this context, it is essential to invest in demystifying the real risks of Gene Therapy, unknown to the majority.The chosen project, "Gene and Cellular Therapy via Alginate Microgels for Muscle Injuries", led by Prof. Dr. Roberta Sessa Stilhano Yamaguchi, is aligned with the dissemination objectives, aiming to demystify the safety and effectiveness of Gene Therapy to make this knowledge accessible to the public. public.The proposal presents an innovative approach to treating muscle injuries, integrating Gene, Cellular and Biomaterials Therapy. The research aims to modulate the levels of TGF²1 (transforming growth factor) using a lentiviral vector encapsulated in alginate microgels, contributing to the reduction of fibrosis. The use of different molecular weights of alginate allows the controlled release of cells and vectors into the tissue, optimizing the effectiveness of the treatment. The strategy includes incorporating skeletal muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs and iMDSCs) into microgels, creating a therapeutic flap to promote tissue regeneration.Furthermore, the project stands out for its innovative potential, offering a solution to a relevant clinical problem. The team, made up of a pair of medical students from Santa Casa, intends to publicize these advances through reports, Reels on Instagram and podcasts, demystifying technical language and promoting a broad understanding of this scientific field.The content will be developed in a linear manner, covering topics such as the introduction to Gene Therapy, treatments available on the market thanks to TG (Gene Therapy), and its revolutionary role in medicine, using language that optimizes public understanding and engagement. The dissemination proposal includes online articles, short videos and interviews with experts, all developed in a didactic and engaging manner.The project seeks to engage the audience, measuring performance through interactions such as likes, comments, saves and shares, anticipating positive feedback and hoping to positively impact public understanding of Gene Therapy. The "GeneTips" profile on Instagram will be the main channel for sharing the products generated during the project, contributing to a more enlightened society in this scientific area.Furthermore, with the acceptance of the proposals in the Comunicar Ciência notice and adherence to rigorous journalistic standards and the technical and content quality of the project, the aim is to expand the dissemination of content on Canal Futura's multiple platforms.