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Abstract

Compositions and methods of increasing autophagy in a cell, or population of cells are disclosed. The methods generally include contacting the cell or cells with an effective amount of an agent that increases the bioavailability of an active isoform of SDF-1. Exemplary agents include active SDF-1 polypeptides, metformin, and DPP4 inhibitors. The methods can include administering the agent to a subject, or treating cells in vivo, in vitro or ex vivo. In some embodiments, cells are treated ex vivo and then transplanted into a subject. In a preferred embodiment, the cells are mesenchymal stem cells such as those found in bone marrow. The compositions and methods can be utilized in a number of therapeutic applications including increasing the longevity or survival of a graft or transplant, increasing the rate of recovery from an injury, reducing one or more symptoms of a chronic inflammatory disease and reducing effect associated with aging.

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First Claim