Step 2

Can HMC-1 cells be grown in serum free media suitable for the study of exosomal transfer?

    A major question in biological engineering is the feasibility of changing the genome of a multicellular organism.  Such change must occur early in development, or a vector must enable the spread of a DNA sequence throughout a multicellular entity.  Current vectors for genetic modification and gene therapy fall short of having the capability to spread a recombinant sequence throughout a multicellular system, often reaching only a specifically targeted tissue or organ.

    The vector I designed for the delivery of DNA throughout a multicellular system uses exosomes, the body’s natural carriers for intercellular transfer of RNA and protein.  In the system I have designed, a genetic construct codes for a DNA-binding protein that sorts the bound construct into an exosome.  Combined with DNA replication, this constitutes a system for spreading a genetic construct throughout a multicellular system via exosomes.

    The HMC-1, or human mast cell line, is well studied for its capability to engage in exosomal communication with selectively packaged cargo of RNA and protein.  However, existing studies with this cell line use serum-based media, which contains exosomes and can vary significantly by lot.  Developing a consistent serum-free media formulation for supporting HMC-1 cell growth would be of great use in furthering studies of exosomal transfer in this cell line by providing additional control over laboratory conditions.  I tested various growth factors for their effects on HMC-1 cell growth and proliferation in serum-free media.