[Application of stem cell transplantation in kidney diseases]

Abstract

This paper summarizes the current literature on the potential therapeutic role of stem cell transplantation for kidney injury and repair and focuses on the choice of types of stem cells, the method of transplantation, and the mechanisms of stem cell homing to injured renal tissues and its protective effects. The application of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) shows wide prospects, but the approach and optimal dose of cell transplantation are under intensive investigation. Signals that regulate stem cell homing to injured renal tissues may be related to chemokines or factors released in the target site. Several studies have pointed out that paracrine and endocrine of stem cells are the most likely mechanism of action in the injured nephron. Many questions remain unanswered but stem cell-based therapy is a promising new strategy for acute and chronic kidney diseases.