Dual-mode action of scalable, high-quality engineered stem cell-derived SIRPα-extracellular vesicles for treating acute liver failure.

Journal: Nature Communications
Published:
Abstract

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a life-threatening condition caused by rapid hepatocyte death and impaired liver regeneration. Here we show that extracellular vesicles engineered to express Signal Regulatory Protein Alpha (SIRP-EVs), produced via a scalable 3D bioreactor process with high yield and purity, exhibit significant therapeutic potential by targeting damaged cells and promoting tissue repair. SIRP-EVs block CD47, a crucial inhibitory signal on necroptotic cells, to enhance macrophage-mediated clearance of dying hepatocytes. They also deliver regenerative cargo from mesenchymal stem cells, reprogramming macrophages to support liver regeneration. In male animal models, SIRP-EVs significantly reduce liver injury markers and improve survival, demonstrating their dual-function therapeutic efficacy. By integrating the resolution of necroptosis with regenerative macrophage reprogramming, SIRP-EVs represent a promising platform for restoring liver function. These findings support the development of EV-based in vivo macrophage reprogramming therapies for ALF and other inflammation-driven diseases, paving the way for the clinical application of engineered EV therapeutics.

Authors
Seohyun Kim, Yoon Kim, Seonghyun Kim, Yong-soon Choi, Inkyu Lee, Hyemin Joo, Jaehyun Kim, Minjeong Kwon, Seryoung Park, Min Jo, Yoonjeong Choi, Theresa D'souza, Jae Jung, Elie Zakhem, Stephen Lenzini, Jiwan Woo, Hongyoon Choi, Jeongbin Park, Seung-yoon Park, Gi Kim, Gi-hoon Nam, In-san Kim