Kenneth Witwer, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Johns Hopkins University, "Native and engineered extracellular vesicles: potential and mechanisms of action"

Speaker:

Kenneth Witwer, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology                                                        

Johns Hopkins University

Faculty Host: Marley Dewey

Title: "Native and engineered extracellular vesicles: potential and mechanisms of action."

Abstract:

Extracellular vesicles are the original "EVs." But is the hype surrounding them justified? In this presentation, we will cover the history of EV vaccines, therapies, and diagnostics. We will also examine critical questions around the source, composition, and manipulability of EVs as therapies. Seeking to use EVs to help patients, a better understanding of their biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and immunogenicity will be needed. In vivo and ex vivo models will assist with gathering clues and promoting progress.

Bio:

Kenneth Witwer is an associate professor of molecular and comparative pathobiology and neurology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. His research focuses on extracellular vesicles, RNA-mediated regulation, biomarker discovery, and therapeutic modulation of innate and intrinsic defenses. Kenneth is the President of the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV) and a member of the Richman Family Precision Medicine Center of Excellence in Alzheimer’s Disease. He is the managing editor of the peer-reviewed medical journal, Cytotherapy, and an associate editor of the Journal for Extracellular Vesicles. He has previously advised the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US National Institutes of Health.