The National Science Foundation (NSF) Engineering program (CFDA 47.041) has awarded a $200,000 Project Grant to Lehigh University, doing business as the Office of Research, to integrate non-viral CRISPR gene activation and deep learning for biomanufacturing precision stem cell products. The key objectives are to: (1) decouple the effects of cell transfection and CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) on mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapeutic capacity, and (2) bridge the gap between single-gene manipulation and complex cellular behaviors by predicting the downstream effects of CRISPRa on gene expression profiles. This research aims to establish standardized high-throughput protocols to enhance the therapeutic output of engineered stem cell products. The award period is from September 1, 2024 to August 31, 2026, and no sub-awards are planned.
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