TS-000446 — Airway epithelial cells (AECs) in the lungs play a crucial role in maintaining a conduit for air and defend against pathogens. Various acute and chronic pulmonary diseases damage AECs resulting in their altered structure and function. However, the AEC renewal is a slow process. Researchers at Nationwide Children’s Hospital have generated Airway Epithelial Stem cells using gene editing technology that will provide unlimited cell source for AECs. Notably, these cells evade immune rejection in recipients. This preclinical invention may provide “off-the-shelf” product paving the way to regenerative respiratory therapeutics.