Disclosed herein are recombinant mesenchymal stromal cells (e MSCs) that expresses one or more immunomodulatory proteins or polypeptides as well as mixed cell populations that include the eMSCs and one or more cell types distinct of the eMSC, such as islet cells or islets. Also disclosed are implantable cell culture devices that include eMSCs or the mixed cell populations. The eMSCs can be used to improve survival of transplanted cells (such as an allograft), and more particularly to methods of modifying T cell response to an allograft and treating a diabetic subject.

The present invention relates to an apheresis device (1) for the extracorporeal removal of C-reactive protein from blood of a patient, wherein the apheresis device is connectable to the blood circulation of the patient. The blood is pumped via a part of the extracorporeal circulation system (2) of the apheresis device (1) according to the invention to a cell separator (7) for separation of the blood into blood plasma and cellular components. Via a first outlet of the cell separator (7), the separated blood plasma is directed by means of a plasma line (8A) to an apheresis column (4) for affinity chromatographic removal of C-reactive protein from the blood plasma. After removal of the C-reactive protein from the blood plasma of the patient, said now treated blood plasma is combined with the cellular components of the blood via a plasma line (8B). Furthermore, the apheresis device (1) according to the invention comprises a bypass line (12), which leads from the plasma line (8A) into the plasma line (8B) while bypassing the apheresis column (4). The apheresis device (1) according to the invention also comprises a regeneration line (14), which runs into the plasma line (8A) or directly into the apheresis column (4).

An exemplary implantable device and an exemplary method for using the same can be provided. Such exemplary implantable device can comprise a mechanically flexible structure configured for a subdermal implantation, cell reservoirs (i) encased within the mechanically flexible structure, and (ii) configured to house engineered cells for secreting therapeutic peptides therein, integrated circuit (IC) chips including sensing and actuating arrays configured to provide temporal-controlled and dose-controlled release of the peptides, and wireless communication components configured to facilitate a wireless data transmission and a wireless charging of the implantable medical device.

The invention is directed to the removal of serum gal-3 from circulation by plasmapheresis, comprising at least in part donor apheresis, using gal-3 binding agents in either a fixed bed, or in a form easily removed, such as by being complexed with magnetic particles. This method, on its own, brings a sharp reduction and relief from the inflammation and fibroses that can be induced by circulating gal-3. The process may be combined with the administration of gal-3 binding agents, such as modified citrus pectin, to further lower unbound gal-3 levels, to the point where gal-3 in the tissues may be addressed. This method may also be combined with removal of TNF receptors to provide an effective treatment for cancer.