Axis 2 "MSC and immunity: Clinical applications"

Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSCs) are cells found in adult tissues that have self-renewal, multipotency, but also immunomodulatory properties. In addition to their structural support and production of important factors for tissue homeostasis, their anti-inflammatory functions are crucial. Thus, their current clinical applications span over a wide range of diseases related to excessive activation of the immune system (inflammation, autoimmune diseases, graft versus host disease or graft rejection...). Their efficacy is believed to be largely ascribed to their immunomodulatory properties. 

In our team, we have implemented standardized immunoassays to analyze the impact of MSC production parameters on their immunosuppressive properties.

In this context, we addressed for example the impact of tissue source and MSCs production process (culture medium composition, senescence status...) on their immunological properties. In addition, we qualify clinical-grade MSCs used in various clinical trials and provide immunological follow-up for patients treated this way.

We also analyze the molecular mechanisms supporting their immunomodulatory potential in order to improve donor or MSC batch selection and cell therapy product preparation.