Akron Biotechnology, LLC — Department of Health and Human Services SBIR Phase I: DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are known to have the c

Description

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are known to have the capacity for self-renewal and differentiation into mesenchyme-lineage cell types, including osteoblasts, adipocytes, chondrocytes, tenocytes, and myoblasts, and contribute to the regeneration of a variety of mesenchymal tissues. Adipose tissue represents a rich source of mesenchymal stem cells, and provides an abundant and accessible source of adult stem cells with minimal patient discomfort. Isolation of adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) has primarily been achieved with Liberase HI, which is composed of Clostridium histolyticum collagenases I and II and thermolysin. All Liberase preparations contain endotoxin, which is harmful for cell viability. The recombinantproduction of Liberase enzymes is marred by the instability of collagenase I. The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of enzymes capable of catalyzing the degradation of virtually all ECM components, including collagens, laminin, fibronecti