Scientists Develop Bioengineered Bone Marrow Model Supporting Human Stem Cells

Researchers from the University of Glasgow have achieved a significant breakthrough by developing the first bioengineered bone marrow model capable of supporting human stem cells. This advancement, published in Nature Communications, replicates key aspects of the human bone marrow microenvironment, providing crucial support for rare long-term haematopoietic stem cells (LT-HSCs). These cells are essential for bone marrow transplants and in vitro studies.

Leukaemia, a type of blood cancer affecting white blood cells in the bone marrow, is responsible for over 300,000 deaths globally each year. LT-HSCs can replenish blood cells after treatments for blood cancers like leukaemia. However, due to the challenges of culturing these cells, researchers often resort to non-human animal models, which can yield unreliable drug testing results. As Professor Matt Dalby of the University of Glasgow explained, “Currently used animal models are poor predictors of drug outcomes, and many of the blood disease treatments on offer – such as mRNA drugs and human-specific small molecules – don’t test well in animal models.”

Supported by the UKRI’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, the scientists cultured LT-HSCs in jelly-like gels, demonstrating that gene editing of LT-HSCs outside the body is feasible. Dr. Hannah Donnelly, who led the study, stated, “By using gels engineered to mimic the bone marrow environment, we can support and study [LT-HSCs] in the lab, ultimately harnessing their full clinical potential.” This innovation presents a new method for testing treatments for blood disorders, including sickle cell disease and blood cancers, while reducing reliance on animal models.

This news comes on the heels of the seventh cured HIV patient using bone marrow, covered here.

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