Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized particles, composed of a lipid bilayer which can encapsulate bio-active molecules (proteins, lipids and nucleic acids). They are produced and subsequently secreted by the vast majority of cells in the human body. EVs function as crucial mediators of intercellular communication and have been shown to be involved in multiple physiological and disease processes. Crucially they can aid in the control of inflammation – a key driver of many significant diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammation and poor wound healing.

We have identified many interesting and important features of extracellular vesicles released from dying cells in relation to their function in communicating with the innate immune system. Significantly, we have identified specific bio-active molecules which are central to the control of inflammation.

Inflammatory diseases often become stalled in their healing in the so-called ‘inflammatory phase’ – the phase where the innate immune system should promote a repair response but does not. Our EVs, designed to carry the inflammation-modifying enzymes, will be engineered to restart this stalled process by pushing the immune system toward normal function again.

Our cutting-edge research has the potential to develop the next generation of therapeutics. By leveraging our expertise in the field of EVs and immunology, we hope to translate our research into EV-based therapeutics for the treatment of intractable inflammatory diseases.