Our Research
At the heart of the MAINSTREAM Hub is a bold ambition – to revolutionise the manufacturing of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) for regenerative medicine, immunotherapy, and cancer therapies. MSCs hold immense clinical potential, but current manufacturing methods limit their scalability and therapeutic viability. We aim to overcome this barrier.
The MAINSTREAM Hub brings together leading UK expertise in materials science, mechanobiology, characterisation, and additive manufacturing to address the key bottlenecks in MSC production. Our multidisciplinary team is developing novel materials and technologies that preserve the “naïve” state of MSCs—crucial for maintaining their regenerative and immunomodulatory functions.
As MSCs age and differentiate during growth, their clinical effectiveness diminishes. Our research focuses on harnessing mechanobiological cues to prevent this decline, enabling high-yield, high-quality MSC production. By doing so, we support sustainable, affordable cell therapies capable of transforming patient care.
The Hub will work closely with clinicians, industry partners, charities, and patient representatives, ensuring our innovations align with real-world needs. We are also committed to public engagement and inclusive research practices.
Through cutting-edge research and collaborative innovation, MAINSTREAM is shaping the future of advanced therapies in the UK and beyond.
Mainstream is a collaboration between three world-class academic institutions and the UK National Health Service.
