Xuedong Liu, Ph.D.
Abstract
Intercellular communication occurs in various forms, enabling cells to coordinate complex biological processes essential for organismal function and homeostasis. Understanding these diverse communication pathways provides critical insights into cellular behavior and offers opportunities for therapeutic innovation. Our research focuses on how mammalian cells exchange genetic information via extracellular vesicles and direct cell-cell contact. We show Gectosomes, a unique subclass of engineered extracellular vesicles, exemplify how intercellular communication tools can be harnessed for therapeutic applications. By actively encapsulating bioactive macromolecules and selectively delivering them to specific cell types, gectosomes expand the scope of intercellular communication research. These vesicles offer practical solutions for delivering large-molecule therapeutics, potentially advancing treatment options for various diseases. In addition to gectosomes, our research has identified a novel type of cell-in-cell structure, termed tangocytosis. This process involves a tumor cell diving into a host cell and remaining entrapped for an extended period. During this interaction, nucleic acids encoding functional genes are transferred unidirectionally from the tumor cell to the host cell, leading to genetic heterogeneity. Tangocytosis provides a potential mechanism for tumor cells to extravasate and promotes genetic and phenotypic diversity in both tumor and host cells. Our findings highlight the multifaceted nature of intercellular communication and its potential for therapeutic innovation.
When: January 24, 2025
Where: North Classroom 1130
Time: 11:00 am - 12:00pm