University at Buffalo (UB)
Exosome:Adeno-associated virus formulations for enhanced gene transfer
Our project aims to enhance the use of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) as gene therapy vectors, the student will learn to make these viruses and modify them to improve their therapeutic capacity, particularly in central nervous system disorders.
Project description
The goal of gene therapy is to deliver therapeutic genes to treat disease. It is critical to identify safe and efficient gene therapy systems. Viruses are often used as efficient gene delivery vehicles, including adeno-associated virus (AAV). However, most viruses cannot be administered repeatedly as the body develops neutralizing antibodies that clear any subsequent treatments before they can deliver their genetic payload. This may be overcome by enveloping the AAV in an exosome coat. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that carry signaling molecules between cells. Exosome:AAV (exo-AAV) formulations avoid the immune system and the development of antibodies, which increases our ability to target AAV to appropriate tissues and allow for repeated treatments. The student researcher will learn how to create and package these exo-AAVs, improve the purification systems, and test them in tissue culture systems. This research will have direct impact on developing a second generation of gene therapies based on enhancing the physical properties of the virus itself.
Project outcome
The specific outcomes of this project will be identified by the faculty mentor at the beginning of your collaboration.
Poster presentation, co-authorship on any publication generated.
Project details
| Length of commitment | Ideally the student will be able to commit at least two semesters |
| Start time | Fall (August/September) Summer (May/June) |
| In-person, remote, or hybrid? | Hybrid Project |
| Level of collaboration | Small group project (2-3 students) |
| Benefits | Academic credit Other: Possible stipend support |
| Who is eligible | Sophomores Juniors Seniors |
Project mentor
Caroline Bass
Associate Professor
Pharmacology and Toxicology
Phone: (617) 304-8627
Email: cebass@buffalo.edu
Start the project
- Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
- After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.)
Preparation activities
Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase.
learn how to write an annotated bibliography
attend all lab safety courses through EH&S
attend basic animal handling and orientation sessions through the Laboratory Animal Facility
Keywords
pharmacology and toxicology