Study Shows Multiple Doses of Extracellular Vesicles Could Reduce Lung Injury Risk in ICU Patients
A new study by Leksum LLC suggests that multiple doses of extracellular vesicles may significantly improve diaphragm muscle function in mechanically ventilated ICU patients, potentially reducing the risk of lung injury and improving recovery outcomes.
A recent study conducted by Leksum LLC has revealed promising results regarding the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in treating muscle myopathy in patients undergoing mechanical ventilation (MV) in intensive care units (ICUs). The research indicates that administering multiple doses of EVs, derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs), can significantly mitigate the risk of lung injury and preserve diaphragm muscle function.
Early findings from the study, conducted at Leksum's laboratory in Uppsala, Sweden, show that after one dose of EVs, there was a notable improvement in the size and function of diaphragm muscle fibers. Further improvement was observed with a second dose, supporting the hypothesis of Professor Lars Larsson, Leksum’s Chief Scientific Officer, about the efficacy of EVs in combating lung injury and diaphragm muscle dysfunction associated with MV.
Measurements taken five days after treatment showed that fiber cross-sectional area (CSA) and specific force (SF) for specimens receiving two doses of EVs were 93% and 94% of control values, respectively. In contrast, untreated specimens showed significantly lower values. The study also noted stable hemodynamic parameters and improved oxygen saturation levels in treated subjects, along with reduced mucus accumulation around the tracheal tube.
This research represents a significant step forward in addressing Ventilator Induced Diaphragm Dysfunction (VIDD), a common complication of MV that leads to higher mortality and morbidity rates. By potentially reducing the negative effects of MV, this therapy could improve the quality of life for millions of patients and decrease the substantial costs associated with the weaning process, estimated at over $100 billion annually in the US and Europe.
Leksum LLC is preparing for Phase I trials in Europe to further investigate the efficacy of EVs in treating muscle myopathies related to MV and other conditions such as sarcopenia and cancer cachexia.