CELL-FREE COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR RESTORATION OR ENHANCEMENT OF TISSUE FUNCTION

Abstract

Cell-free compositions for promoting restoration of tissue function or enhancement of tissue function and methods of stimulating or promoting restoration or enhancement of tissue function using the cell-free compositions. The compositions herein help stimulate endogenous pathways via a subject's own cells effectively for improving tissue function, enhancing tissue function, enhancing cell proliferation, etc. The compositions comprise one or a plurality of therapeutic components such as growth factors, extracellular matrix, DNA, RNA, hormones, drugs, cell surface receptors, enzymes, cytokines, angiogenesis modulating factors, etc., e.g., any material that can effectively activation endogenous pathways in the subject's own cell to a desired effect. The cell-free composition comprises a carrier or is attached to or integrated into and/or within a carrier. The carrier may help provide for containment of the therapeutic components and/or provide for time-release of the therapeutic components of the cell-free composition.

Claims

1. A cell-free composition comprising: a. a carrier; and b. at least one stimulating agent for activating an endogenous pathway in a target tissue; wherein the cell-free composition, when administered to a subject, promotes repair of the target tissue, restoration of function of the target tissue, or enhancement of function of the target tissue.

2. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the stimulating agent is one or a combination of RNA, DNA, protein, carbohydrate, or a lipid.

3.-4. (canceled)

5. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the stimulating agent is a virus.

6. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the stimulating agent is a composition for in vivo gene editing.

7. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the stimulating agent is one or a combination of a growth factor, an angiogenesis modulating agent, a hormone, a drug, a cell surface receptor, an enzyme, a nucleic acid.

8. The cell-free composition of claim 7, wherein the growth factor is one or a combination of: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a fibroblast growth factor (FGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), Transforming growth factors-beta (TGF-beta), transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-alpha), an insulin-like growth factor, erythropoietin (Epo), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), tumor necrosis factor-beta (TNF-beta), interferon-gamma (INF-gamma), or a colony stimulating factor (CSFS).

9. The cell-free composition of claim 7, wherein the angiogenesis modulating agent is one or more of: angiopoietin-1, epidermal growth factor (EGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-alpha), platelet derived endothelial cell growth factor (PD-ECGF), platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), interleukin-8 (IL-8), growth hormone (GH), angiopoietin, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a fibroblast growth factor (FGF), transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-alpha), CYR 61, or platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF).

10. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the stimulating agent promotes production of a growth factor in the cell, modifies DNA of cells in the target tissue or causes gene expression of cells in the target tissue to be modified, promotes or enhances cell-cell communication, increases vessel density in the target tissue, promotes electrical signal transduction, causes activation of tissue remodeling, promotes cell proliferation, promotes electrical signal transduction, promotes cell differentiation, promotes cell survival, promotes energy production, activates cell repair pathways, or promotes secretion of secretory factors.

11.-22. (canceled)

23. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the carrier allows for time-release of one or more therapeutic components.

24. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the carrier is a film, a patch, a sponge, a foam, or a gel.

25.-29. (canceled)

30. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the carrier comprises a biological matrix, a synthetic matrix, or a combination thereof.

31. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the carrier comprises a collagen matrix, gelatin, or a combination thereof.

32.-35. (canceled)

36. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the carrier helps contain the cell-free composition in the target tissue.

37. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the target tissue is muscle, bone, cartilage, central nervous system tissue, eye tissue, epithelial tissue, gastrointestinal tissue, auditory tissue, genital tissue, oral cavity tissue, or connective tissue.

38.-39. (canceled)

40. The cell-free composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises two or more stimulating agents.

41.-56. (canceled)

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] The present invention features cell-free compositions for restoration of tissue function or enhancement of tissue function in target tissues, and methods of use. The compositions herein help stimulate endogenous pathways via a subject's own cells effectively for improving tissue function, enhancing tissue function, enhancing cell proliferation, etc. Briefly, the compositions comprise one or a plurality of therapeutic components functioning as stimulating agents, e.g., molecules, compound, or compositions that affect pathways of endogenous cells to stimulate restoration of tissue function or enhancement of tissue function in a particular target tissue. Non-limiting examples of stimulating agents Include growth factors, extracellular matrix components, protein, DNA, RNA, hormones, drugs, cell surface receptors, enzymes, cytokines, angiogenesis modulating factors, etc., e.g., any material that can appropriately affect (e.g., activate, inhibit) particular endogenous pathways in the subject's own cell to achieve a desired effect. As an example, a stimulating agent from the cell-free composition may lead to the activation of pathways in the subject's own cells that lead to secretion of growth factor so as to promote cell survival, cell repair, cell function, regain of tissue function, or enhancement of tissue function.

[0032] Subjects include but are not limited to humans or other primates or any other appropriate animal model such as mice, rats, pigs, cats, dogs, rabbits, etc.

[0033] Non-limiting examples of target tissues include muscle (e.g., skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, etc.), bone, cartilage, central nervous system tissue (e.g., nerves, myelin sheath, etc.), eye tissue, epithelial tissue, gastrointestinal tissue (e.g., colon tissue, pancreas tissue, liver tissue, etc.), ear and auditory tissue, genital tissue, oral cavity tissue (e.g., salivary tissue, dental tissue, etc.), connective tissue, etc.

[0034] The exact combination of components, e.g., therapeutic components, stimulating agents, used to produce the cell-free compositions of the present invention may vary depending on the target tissue. Different tissues may have different requirements for repair, restoration of function (e.g., restoration of cell-cell communication, immune response, extracellular matrix production, etc.), etc. As an example, the restoration of function of heart muscle may involve remodeling and restoration of cellular communication for coordinated electrical signaling and mechanical force generation. As an example, the effect on heart tissue may include agents to enhance survival of endogenous cells, enhance function of endogenous cells, Including but not limited to cardiomyocytes, as well as agents that promote proliferation of endogenous cells, including but not limited to fibroblasts, endothelial cells, etc. Further, the combination of components used to produce the cell-free compositions of the present invention will also vary depending on the underlying cause of the tissue damage, e.g., whether the damage was a result of trauma, a chronic disease, a congenital disease, a genetic abnormality, etc., or whether the composition is used in a healthy subject for the purpose of enhancing tissue function (e.g., enhancing muscle strength, endurance, etc.).

[0035] In certain embodiments, the cell-free compositions of the present invention comprise material produced by cells. In certain embodiments, the cell-free compositions of the present invention comprise material capable of being produced by cells. In certain embodiments, the cell-free compositions of the present invention comprise material that is engineered or manufactured.

[0036] Non-limiting examples of therapeutic components or stimulating agents of the cell-free compositions of the present invention include cell surface receptors from intact livings cells as well as non-living or non-living and non-intact cells, e.g. toll-like receptors (TLRs), CD40, growth factor(s); DNA; RNA (e.g., RNA, miRNA, etc.); cytokines (e.g., interferon gamma, interleukins (e.g., IL-4, IL-5, IL-8, IL-13, IL-17, IL-22, etc.); viruses, RNAs including but not limited to microRNAs; hormones; drugs; extracellular matrix; proteins, proteasomes, and glycoproteins, e.g. major basic protein (MBP), granule proteins, heat shock proteins (HSPs), granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor; proteases; glycans, proteoglycans; chemokines (e.g., MCP-1, macrophage inflammatory proteins (MIPs), RANTES, IP-10); vasoactive agents; angiogenesis modulating agents; enzymes (e.g. MMPs, elastase, cathepsins, lysosomal hydrolytic enzymes, eosinophilic peroxidase, proteases); gene editing compositions (e.g., one or more components for the purpose of in vivo gene editing); tryptase, chymase; other biologically active components; gene therapies, e.g., gene therapies via viruses, RNA, DNA, etc.; the like, or a combination thereof.

[0037] Growth factors may include but are not limited to: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), angiopoietin-1, matrix deposit factors (e.g., Transforming growth factors, e.g., TGF-a, TGF-b, e.g., TGF-b1, TBG-b3, etc.), mitogenic factors (e.g., platelet derived growth factor (PDGF, e.g., platelet derived growth factor A (PDGF-A), Insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), Heparin binding epidermal growth factor (HBEGF), Transforming growth factor a (TGFa)), angiogenic factors (e.g., Angiogenein, Angiopoientin-2), Endothelial Growth Factor, Leptin, Platelet derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB), Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), Basic Fibroblasts growth factor (bFGF), Secreted protein acid and rich in cysteine (SPARC), Interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), Inflammatory Cytokines (e.g., Interferon-gamma, Interleukin 1a, Interleukin 1b, Interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), Monocyte chemotactic protein 1, Granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GCSF), Tumor necrosis factor a (TNFa), EPO, etc.

[0038] The cell-free compositions herein comprise a carrier. For example, the compositions may be attached to a carrier, integrated into a carrier, encapsulated by a carrier, etc. The carrier may help provide for containment of the therapeutic components and/or targeting or localization of the therapeutic components of the composition and/or provide for time-release of the therapeutic components of the cell-free composition. For example, the carrier could be used for targeted delivery of the therapeutic components (e.g., the stimulating factor(s)), to avoid off-target affects, to help minimize the amount of therapeutic agent needed for effectiveness (e.g., reduce waste, reduce cost, etc.). Targeting is not limited to specific targeting wherein the carrier comprises a receptor that is specific for a ligand of the target tissue or vice versa. Targeting may refer to merely the physical administration of the composition to the location needed. Targeting may refer to physical contact with the intended target tissue. Targeting may refer to containment of the composition in the area of the target tissue, etc.

[0039] Carriers (e.g., pharmaceutical carriers, pharmaceutical vehicles, pharmaceutical compositions, pharmaceutical molecules, etc.) are materials generally known to deliver cells and/or drugs and/or other appropriate material into the body. The compositions herein may feature a carrier, which may function as a preservative agent, a timed-release control agent, a bulking agent, etc. for the components of the composition. For example, a carrier may comprise a patch, e.g., a material in which components of the cell-free composition are adsorbed for slow release or encapsulated for slow/sustained, fast/acute or controlled release. In certain embodiments, components of the cell-free composition may be physically encapsulated or biochemically bound by a carrier. Carrier materials may be treated to enhance encapsulation or binding activity of the components of the cell-free composition.

[0040] Carriers (e.g., pharmaceutical carriers or vehicles) may comprise conventional carriers but are not limited to conventional carriers. For example, E. W. Martin, Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mack Publishing Co., Easton. Pa., 15th Edition (1975) and D. B. Troy, ed. Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Baltimore Md. and Philadelphia, Pa., 21.sup.st Edition (2006) describe compositions and formulations suitable for pharmaceutical delivery of one or more therapeutic compounds or molecules. In general, the nature of the carrier will depend on the nature of the composition being delivered as well as the particular mode of administration being employed. In addition to biologically-neutral carriers, pharmaceutical compositions administered may contain minor amounts of non-toxic auxiliary substances, such as wetting or emulsifying agents, preservatives, and pH buffering agents and the like. Patents that describe pharmaceutical carriers include, but are not limited to: U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,667,371; 6,613,355; 6,596,296; 6,413,536; 5,968,543; 4,079,038; 4,093,709; 4,131,648; 4,138,344; 4,180,646; 4,304,767; 4,948,931, the disclosures of which are incorporated in their entirety by reference herein.

[0041] The carrier may, for example, be solid, liquid (e.g., a solution), foam, a gel, the like, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the carrier comprises a biological matrix (e.g., biological fibers, etc.). In some embodiments, the carrier comprises a synthetic matrix (e.g., synthetic fibers, etc.). In certain embodiments, a portion of the carrier may comprise biological matrix and a portion may comprise synthetic matrix.

[0042] In certain embodiments, the carrier comprises a collagen matrix, gelatin, the like, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the carrier may resemble a scaffold, e.g., a composition providing bulk, thickness, and/or structural support for components of the cell-free composition. Non-limiting examples of materials that may commonly be used for constructing scaffolds include: polyglycolide, polylactide, polyhydroxobutyrate, poly(anhydrdes), poly(dioxanone), poly (trimethylene carbonate), polyglactin, poly(lactic acid), polyvinylidene fluoride, polyesters, silicone, polyurethane, polymethylmethacrylate, polypropylene, polyethylene, poliglecaprone-25 monofilament, a polycarbonate, a polyamide, a polyesters, a polystyrene, a polyacrylate, a polyvinyl, polytetrafluorethylene, thermanox, nitrocellulose, gelatin, dextran, collagen, fibrin, elastin, silk, metals. TMC, proteins/peptides, the like, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the carrier or scaffold is in the form of a film. In certain embodiments, the carrier or scaffold is a sponge. In certain embodiments, the carrier or scaffold is stratified having multiple levels or layers.

[0043] Non-limiting examples of carriers include hydrogels (e.g. collagen, gelatin, fibrin, glycosaminoglycans, the like, or combinations thereof); tissues; porous scaffolds; non-porous scaffolds; synthetic scaffolds (e.g., poly(lactic acid), poly(glycolic acid), poly(caprolactone), co-polymers, the like, combinations thereof); natural scaffolds; scaffolds from a combination of synthetic or natural materials; ceramics; composites; natural polymers (e.g. collagen, fibrin, silk, glycosaminoglycans, the like, or a combination thereof); liposomes; micelles; microspheres; nanoparticles or nanocapsules or other nanostructures such as nanoshells (optionally allowing for controlled release); proteins; fatty acids; carbohydrates, gels; etc.

[0044] The carrier may be absorbable or non-absorbable. Or, the carrier may comprise a portion that is absorbable and a portion that is non-absorbable. In some embodiments, a portion of the carrier resorbs/absorbs/degrades within 1 day of administration (e.g., injection, implantation, etc.). In some embodiments, a portion of the carrier resorbs/absorbs/degrades within 1 week of administration (e.g., injection, implantation, etc.). In some embodiments, a portion of the carrier resorbs/absorbs/degrades within 2 weeks administration (e.g., injection, implantation, etc.). In some embodiments, a portion of the carrier resorbs/absorbs/degrades within 1 month of administration (e.g., injection, implantation, etc.). In some embodiments, a portion of the carrier resorbs/absorbs/degrades within 6 months of administration (e.g., injection, implantation, etc.). In some embodiments, a portion of the carrier resorbs/absorbs/degrades within 1 year of administration (e.g., injection, implantation, etc.). In some embodiments, a portion of the carrier resorbs/absorbs/degrades within 2 years of administration (e.g., injection, Implantation, etc.). In some embodiments, a portion of the carrier resorbs/absorbs/degrades within 3 years of administration (e.g., injection, implantation, etc.). In some embodiments, a portion of the carrier resorbs/absorbs/degrades within 4 years of administration (e.g., injection, implantation, etc.). Any appropriate degradable materials or combinations thereof may achieve a desired degradation profile.

[0045] The carrier or scaffold may be anisotropic, e.g., the mechanical properties of the carrier or scaffold may be different in one direction than the other. In certain embodiments, the carrier or scaffold may be isotropic.

[0046] The carrier may comprise components that are products of cells. For example, in certain embodiments, the product is extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM may be derived from any appropriate ECM-generating cells. ECM components may include but are not limited to collagen (e.g., collagen type I, collagen Type II), elastin, fibronectin, laminins, tenascin, proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans (e.g., Veriscan, Decorin, Betaglycan, Syndecan), etc.

[0047] In some embodiments, the carrier itself further comprises one or more growth factors. Growth factors may include but are not limited to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), angiopoietin-1, matrix deposit factors (e.g., Transforming growth factor (TGF-b1), Transforming growth factor (TBG-b3)), mitogenic factors (e.g., Platelet derived growth factor A (PDGF-A), Insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Heparin binding epidermal growth factor (HBEGF), Transforming growth factor a (TGFa)), angiogenic factors (e.g., Angiogenein, Angiopoietin-2), Endothelial Growth Factor, Leptin, Platelet derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB), Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), Basic Fibroblasts growth factor (bFGF), Secreted protein acid and rich in cysteine (SPARC), interleukin 6 (IL-6), Interleukin 8 (IL-8), Inflammatory Cytokines (e.g., Interferon-gamma, Interleukin 1a. Interleukin 1b, Interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), Monocyte chemotactic protein 1, Granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GCSF), Tumor necrosis factor a (TNFa)), FGF, EPO, etc. The carrier may comprise any of the aforementioned proteins or agents herein.

[0048] In some embodiments, the carrier is constructed from or comprises a component for enhancing adherence to the endogenous cells of the subject. In some embodiments, the carrier is constructed from or comprises a component for enhancing adherence of the carrier to the therapeutic components of the cell-free composition. For example, in some embodiments, the carrier has a hydrophilicity adapted to allow adherence of endogenous cells of the subject to itself.

[0049] Mechanisms of release of components of the cell-free composition (e.g., therapeutic components) from the carrier include but are not limited to: hydrolysis, enzymatic degradation (e.g. collagenase); temperature sensitive changes in structure or porosity; melting; dissolution; light activated changes in structure or porosity (e.g. using resonance); electrically activated changes in structure or porosity; bioactivation (e.g. conversion to an enzyme); digestion; ultrasonic disruption: physical disruption; denaturation; biodegradation; structural changes through binding receptors or molecules; structure changes through polymerization; swelling; the like, or a combination thereof.

[0050] In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition and/or carrier is designed to allow for confirmation that the cell-free composition reaches its target or intended destination.

[0051] Table 1 below shows non-limiting examples of cell-free compositions of the present invention. The present invention Is not limited to the examples described herein.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Examples of Cell-Free Compositions Components (e.g., therapeutic components) Nucleic Acid (e.g., RNA) Carrier Cell- Angiogenesis or Gene Flim Time- Foam Growth surface Modulating Editing Example or Patch Capsule Sponge release or Gel Factors ECM receptors Agents Material Drugs 1 ✓ ✓ ✓ 2 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 3 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 4 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 5 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 6 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 7 ✓ ✓ ✓ 8 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 9 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 10 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 11 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 12 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 13 ✓ ✓ ✓ 14 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 15 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 16 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 17 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 18 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 19 ✓ ✓ ✓ 20 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 21 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 22 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 23 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 24 ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 25 ✓ ✓ 26 ✓ ✓ 27 ✓ ✓ 28 ✓ ✓ 29 ✓ ✓ 30 ✓ ✓ ✓

Methods of Use

[0052] The present invention features methods of restoring function a target tissue in a subject in need thereof, as well as methods of enhancing function of a target tissue in a subject in need thereof. The methods may generally comprise administering to the subject (e.g., administering specifically the target tissue) a cell-free composition of the present invention, wherein the cell-free composition promotes tissue repair, restores tissue function, and/or enhances tissue function of the target tissue.

[0053] As previously discussed, the compositions comprise one or a plurality of therapeutic components functioning as stimulating agents, e.g., molecules, RNA, compound, or compositions that affect pathways of endogenous cells to stimulate restoration of tissue function or enhancement of tissue function in a particular target tissue. The particular therapeutic components of the composition depend on the target tissue (e.g., cell-free compositions designed for cardiac tissue will differ from cell-free compositions for skin tissue) and the goal effect (e.g. survival of endogenous cells, proliferation of endogenous cells, enhanced function of endogenous cells). Likewise, the effects of the cell-free composition (e.g., the stimulating agent/agents of the composition) will activate and/or inhibit different pathways in different tissues.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the activation of pathways in the subject's own cells that lead to secretion of growth factor so as to promote tissue repair, regain of tissue function, or enhancement of tissue function. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to activate or promote angiogenesis (increase vascular density) and increase blood flow to the target tissue. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to activate tissue remodeling. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to promote cell proliferation. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells activate or promote cell differentiation. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to promote or enhance cell-cell communication. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to promote or enhance cell survival. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the ceil-free composition) causes the subject's cells to promote or enhance energy production. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to promote or enhance protein production. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to promote or enhance RNA production. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to promote or enhance cell death. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to inhibit cell death. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to activate cell repair pathways. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to promote or enhance secretion of particular secretory factors. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to promote or enhance electrical signal transduction.

[0055] In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the DNA In the subject's cells to be modified. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes gene expression in the subject's cells to be modified. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition (e.g., stimulating agent from the cell-free composition) causes the subject's cells to release a particular hormone. The present invention is not limited to the aforementioned pathways that may be affected by the cell-free compositions herein.

[0056] The cell-free compositions herein can increase vascular density in a target tissue. In certain embodiments, the composition increases vascular density in a target tissue by 1-fold or more. In certain embodiments, the composition increases vascular density in a target tissue by 2-fold or more. In certain embodiments, the composition increases vascular density in a target tissue by 3-fold or more. In certain embodiments, the composition increases vascular density in a target tissue by 4-fold or more. In certain embodiments, the composition increases vascular density in a target tissue by 5-fold or more.

[0057] The cell-free compositions can increase blood flow in the target tissue. In certain embodiments, the composition Increases blood flow in a target tissue by 1-fold or more. In certain embodiments, the composition increases blood flow in a target tissue by 2-fold or more. In certain embodiments, the composition increases blood flow in a target tissue by 3-fold or more. In certain embodiments, the composition increases blood flow in a target tissue by 4-fold or more. In certain embodiments, the composition increases blood flow in a target tissue by 5-fold or more.

[0058] Restoration or enhancement of tissue function also depends on the particular target tissue. For example, restoration or enhancement of liver tissue function may refer to an increase in hepatic secretions. Restoration or enhancement of cardiac tissue function may refer to an increase in electrical function of cells, restoration of cell-cell communication between cells, etc. For example, restoration of cardiac tissue function may refer to Improved contractility of stunned or hibernating myocardium, improved muscle contractions in an akinetic or hypokinetic heart, etc. Restoration of cardiac tissue may even refer to the inhibition of disease progression, stabilization of the heart, etc. Restoration of skin tissue may refer to regeneration of skin after a significant burn. Restoration or enhancement of auditory tissue may refer to increased function of the cochlea, e.g., improved hearing.

[0059] Methods of administration of the compositions of the present Invention may include injection, implantation, or oral administration.

[0060] The cell-free composition may be delivered under the visceral layer of a particular tissue or organ. In certain embodiments, the cell-free composition may be delivered under the parietal layer of a particular organ or tissue, e.g., the space between the parietal layer and the visceral layer. The target for the cell-free composition may be accessed through both the visceral and parietal layers, e.g., the two layers may be dissected to provide access to the tissue or organ. For example, the composition may be delivered to the pleural space, e.g., the space between the visceral pleura and the parietal pleura. The composition may be delivered to the heart tissue below the visceral pericardium. The present invention is not limited to the aforementioned examples of specific delivery of the cell-free compositions.

[0061] Administration of the cell-free compositions of the present invention may feature a single administration. In certain embodiments, administration of the cell-free compositions may feature two or more administrations of the cell-free composition (e.g., two or more administrations of the same composition, two or more administrations of different compositions, a combination thereof, etc.).

[0062] As an example, in applications related to cardiac tissue, one or a combination of cell-free compositions of the present invention may be administered (e.g., injected) into one or more locations such as: the myocardium, epicardium and/or endocardium of the left ventricle, right ventricle, septum, under the parietal pericardium, between the parietal pericardium and visceral pericardium, and/or under the visceral pericardium, etc. The administrations (e.g., injections) may be performed in a particular directional order, e.g., the administrations may start from the peri-infarct (border) zone toward the infarct zone (the dosing and spacing of injections may depend on the size of the diseased area and severity of disease). The procedure may be a single administration. Or, in certain embodiments, the procedure may feature a series of administrations, e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, from 1 to 10, etc. Administrations may be spaced as appropriate, e.g., days apart (e.g., 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, 7 days, 10 days, 15 days, 20 days, from 7 to 21 days, etc.), weeks apart (e.g., 1 week apart, 2 weeks apart. 3 weeks apart, 4 weeks apart, 5 weeks apart, etc.), etc.

[0063] As an example, in applications related to muscle tissue, one or a combination of cell-free compositions of the present Invention may be administered (e.g., injected) into one or more target locations (e.g., in and/or around the target muscle). The administrations (e.g., injections) may be performed in a particular directional order. In certain embodiments, the administrations (e.g., injections) may be performed as a stand-alone procedure. In certain embodiments, the administrations (e.g., injections) may be performed as adjunct to another procedure. The procedure may be a single administration. Or, in certain embodiments, the procedure may feature a series of administrations, e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 20, etc. Administrations may be spaced as appropriate, e.g., days apart (e.g., 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 8 days, 7 days, 10 days, 15 days, 20 days, from 7 to 21 days, etc.), weeks apart (e.g., 1 week apart, 2 weeks apart, 3 weeks apart, 4 weeks apart, 5 weeks apart, etc.), months apart (e.g. 1 month, 2 months, 6 months, etc.), etc.

[0064] The cell-free compositions of the present invention are constructed to withstand short-term and/or long-term storage, e.g., cryopreservation. Cryopreservation may refer to a temperature of −80° C. to −196° C. or −90° C. to 196° C. The ability to cryopreserve the composition helps allow for stocking until use, as well as for transporting the compositions from one location to another.

[0065] The cell-free compositions may also be constructed to withstand certain lengths of time at room temperature (or a temperature below 37° C.). Without wishing to limit the present invention to any theory or mechanism, it is believed that the ability to remain functional or usable at a temperature below 37° C. for certain lengths of time may be beneficial for instances when the composition is out of the incubator prior to use. As an example, a composition may be exposed to room temperature for a lengthy period of time when it is removed from the incubator, brought to a room for administration, but is not administered immediately.

Example 1

[0066] Example 1 describes data obtained from tissue cultures of fibroblast only cultures (Table 2), co-cultured cardiac grafts (cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts) (Table 2, Table 3), and grafts containing cardiac progenitor cells and fibroblasts (Table 2). Various cytokines, proteins, growth factors. etc. were given off by these cells, resulting in tissue repair/associated functional benefit.

[0067] Table 2 below shows gene expression of cardiac graft cultures of terminally differentiated cardiomyocytes co-cultured with fibroblasts and of cardiac progenitor cells co-cultured with fibroblasts (vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), stromal derived factor-1 (SDF-1a), Insulin like growth factor-1 (IgF-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, and IL-10). N=2.

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Terminally differentiated cardiomyocytes co- Cardiac progenitor cells co- cultured with fibroblasts cultured with fibroblasts Agent (fold expression) (fold expression) VEGF 8 7 SDF-1 alpha 5 2 IgF-1 8 7 IL-6 12 12 IL-8 9 10 IL-10 8 6

[0068] Table 3 below shows growth factor and cytokine expression levels of fresh vs thawed (previously cryopreserved) cardiac grafts (terminally differentiated cardiomyocytes co-cultured with fibroblasts) as assessed through ELISA assay. Data are mean+SE. * denotes statistical difference (p<0.05). N=3 for Fresh, n=3 for Thawed.

TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Agent Fresh (pg/ml) Thawed (pg/ml) IGF-1 0.16    0.17 VEGF 1300 800* FGF 30 70 HGF 650 1200*  G-CSF 1200 1600  TGF-b 750 800 

[0069] Table 4 below shows cytokine, chemokine and growth factor stimulation of angiogenic and inflammatory markers in static (control) versus strained fibroblasts grafts in vivo for over 48 hrs (10% 1 Hz). Expression is in pg cytokine/ug DNA, n=3. Adjusted for 2% fetal bovine serum in medium. *p<0.05.

TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Cytokine Activation in Static (control) versus Strained Fibroblast Grafts Static Strained Angiogenic Agents Angiogenin 1322 ± 769 383 ± 140 Angiopoientin-2  −71 ± 183 −180 ± 100  Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor  461 ± 290 38 ± 50 Endothelial Growth Factor .sup. 15 ± 0.7 5 ± 3 Heparin-Binding Endothelial −226 ± 189 −172 ± 49  Growth Factor Hepatocyte Growth Factor  9725 ± 4307 9285 ± 5219 Leptin  −152 ± 3610  459 ± 1970 Platelet-Derived Growth Factor BB 38 ± 8 23 ± 4  Placental Growth Factor 11 ± 4 27 ± 14 Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor  324 ± 152 758 ± 392 Inflammation Factors Interferon-gamma 3573 ± 258 2060 ± 153* Interleukin-1α 577 ± 23 212 ± 6*  Interleukin-1β 171 ± 27 36 ± 5* Interleukin-4 101 ± 16 36 ± 7* Interleukin-6  83 ± 33 36 ± 19 Interleukin-8  3937 ± 2192 2966 ± 1517 Interleukin-10 −20 ± 14 −48 ± 8  Interieukin-13 −77 ± 36 −137 ± 34  Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 11900 ± 5890 10830 ± 2847  Tumor Necrosis Factor α 2183 ± 100 1277 ± 110*

[0070] The disclosures of the following U.S. patents are incorporated in their entirety by reference herein: U.S. Pat. App. No. 2018/0361025; U.S. Pat. No. 4,963,409; U.S. Pat. App. No. US2009/0269316; WO2013151755; WO2011102991; U.S. Pat. App. No. 2014/0178450: U.S. Pat. No. 8,802,144; WO2009102967; U.S. Pat. No. 9,119,831; WO2010042856; U.S. Pat. No. 2008/075750. U.S. Pat. No. 9,587,222.

[0071] Various modifications of the invention, in addition to those described herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications are also intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. Each reference cited in the present application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0072] Although there has been shown and described the preferred embodiment of the present invention, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications may be made thereto which do not exceed the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, the scope of the invention is only to be limited by the following claims. Reference numbers recited in the claims are exemplary and for ease of review by the patent office only, and are not limiting in any way. In some embodiments, the figures presented in this patent application are drawn to scale, including the angles, ratios of dimensions, etc. In some embodiments, the figures are representative only and the claims are not limited by the dimensions of the figures. In some embodiments, descriptions of the inventions described herein using the phrase “comprising” includes embodiments that could be described as “consisting of”, and as such the written description requirement for claiming one or more embodiments of the present Invention using the phrase “consisting of” is met.

[0073] The reference numbers recited in the below claims are solely for ease of examination of this patent application, and are exemplary, and are not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims to the particular features having the corresponding reference numbers in the drawings.