Rilla Lab

Research Goals
We aim to utilize the unique properties of hyaluronic acid (HA) to enhance the safety and specific targeting of HA-based nanocarriers. We use modern high resolution, 3-dimensional and live-cell bioimaging techniques and their combinations, and develop novel methods for EV engineering and analysis. We are interested in the impact of extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules and adhesion receptors, such as HA and CD44 on the EV biogenesis, traffic, and interactions with their target cells. Our aim is to increase the understanding of the basic biology of EV which helps to develop novel strategies for utilization of EVs in drug delivery.

Scientific and Societal Impact of Research
EVs are natural next-generation tools for targeted therapy and early diagnostics of cancer and other widespread diseases, such as various types of inflammation and metabolic diseases. Their presence in all body fluids like plasma and urine enables their non-invasive detection from liquid biopsies instead of the limited sample obtained with fixed biopsies. Furthermore, stem cell-derived EVs act as promising tools for cell-free therapy of damaged, slowly regenerating tissues. In addition to their diagnostic and therapeutic value, EVs act as important regulators of human physiology both in health and disease.