Mesenchymal Stem Cell Exosomes for Alzheimer’s Disease: Mechanisms, Pathway Analysis, and Intranasal Delivery
Explore the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes for Alzheimer's disease. Analyze molecular mechanisms using bioinformatics and test innovative intranasal delivery for cognitive recovery in AD models.
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Project Description
Project Overview
Alzheimer’s disease causes progressive dementia, and current treatments only slow symptoms. Overactive microglia drive AD pathology, making them key therapeutic targets. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-Ex) offer a promising, low-immunogenic, cell-free therapy with immunomodulatory effects. Monash has patented an intranasal MSC-Ex dry powder to address delivery challenges.
What You Will Do
You will profile MSC-Ex contents, identify molecular pathways via bioinformatics, and validate mechanisms using in vitro and in vivo AD models. Intranasal MSC-Ex will be tested for their neuroprotective effects, regulation of microglia, and impact on cognitive recovery.
Expected Outcomes
Expected outcomes include identification of key molecular pathways targeted by MSC-Ex, demonstration of therapeutic efficacy in AD models, and validation of intranasal MSC-Ex as an effective delivery method improving cognitive function.
Why This Matters
This research addresses the unmet need for effective AD treatments by targeting microglial overactivation using a novel cell-free therapy. Intranasal delivery maximizes brain targeting while minimizing systemic side effects, potentially transforming AD patient care.
Entry Requirements
How to Apply
Eligibility
Supervisor Profile
Dr. How Chee Wun is a researcher at Monash University Malaysia focusing on nanoparticle drug delivery, nanostructured lipid carriers, and applications in neurodegenerative diseases and cancer therapy. His work integrates molecular biology and bioengineering to develop novel therapeutic systems, particularly targeting neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s Disease.