ABSTRACT
The invention generally features compositions and methods for expanding long term hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in a population of cells. In particular, the invention relates to a method of expanding long term HSCs by culturing an initial population of HSCs with macrophages that promote self-renewal of long term HSCs. The expanded cell population provides a source of cells for therapeutic treatments utilizing HSC transplantation.
CLAIMS
1. A therapeutic composition comprising ex vivo expanded long term hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), wherein obtained HSCs were co-cultured with M2 polarized macrophages and optionally at least one macrophage-derived secretion factor thereby generating the ex vivo expanded long term HSCs, wherein the HSCs have improved expansion and engraftment capabilities compared to HSCs expanded with non-polarized macrophages.