Liver transplants are a life-saving treatment for patients, but have slow and insensitive metrics of transplant rejection. This application explores a genetically engineered cell biosensor that is pre- engrafted into a transplant in order to report and respond to early warning signals of transplant failure through the following aims: (1) In Vitro Screening of MSC Biosensors Against Plasma from Transplant Recipients, and (2) Theranostic Study Of Ex Vivo Engrafted Biosensors in Allograft Rejection Settings. These data will establish a proof-of-concept of cell biosensors for to monitor and locally treat transplanted organs with impact in basic and applied transplant biology research.

Public Health Relevance

Rejection of a liver transplant can be a devastating outcome for patients and a huge economic toll on society. This application uses a genetically engineered cell that is engrafted into the liver prior to transplant to sense inflammation and simultaneously release a blood-based biomarker and local therapeutic. The significance of this research program is to bring to bear a new theranostic biosensor strategy for the real-time, in situ monitoring and management of an organ transplant.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Exploratory/Developmental Grants (R21)
Project #
1R21AI134116-01A1
Application #
9528830
Study Section
Bioengineering, Technology and Surgical Sciences Study Section (BTSS)
Program Officer
Nabavi, Nasrin N
Project Start
2018-05-14
Project End
2020-04-30
Budget Start
2018-05-14
Budget End
2019-04-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2018
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Massachusetts General Hospital
Department
Type
DUNS #
073130411
City
Boston
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code