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Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Reduce Progression of Experimental Chronic Kidney Disease but Develop Wilms' Tumors

Heloisa Cristina Caldas1,2, Fernando Henrique Lojudice3, Cinthia Dias1

  • 1Laboratory of Immunology and Experimental Transplantation (LITEX), Department of Medicine FAMERP Medical School, Sao Jose do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil.

Stem Cells International
|August 29, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSs) show potential in slowing chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. However, iPS therapy carries a significant risk of developing Wilms

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Regenerative Medicine
  • Stem Cell Biology

Background:

  • Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition with limited therapeutic options.
  • Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSs) offer potential but their efficacy and safety in CKD are unproven.
  • Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are a comparator therapy for regenerative potential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of iPSs in retarding CKD progression.
  • To compare the effects of iPSs versus BMSCs in a rat CKD model.
  • To assess the safety profile of iPS transplantation in CKD.

Main Methods:

  • A 5/6 nephrectomized rat model of CKD was established.
  • Rats were treated with either iPSs or BMSCs, or left untreated.
  • Renal function, histology, immunohistochemistry, and gene expression (including SRY for iPS tracking) were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Both iPSs and BMSCs improved renal function and slowed CKD progression.
  • iPS treatment uniquely reduced proteinuria and macrophage infiltration.
  • Tumor development (consistent with Wilms' tumor) was observed in 5/8 rats treated with iPSs.

Conclusions:

  • iPSs demonstrate therapeutic potential for CKD, comparable to BMSCs in some aspects.
  • iPS treatment carries a significant risk of tumor formation, specifically Wilms' tumor.
  • Further research is needed to mitigate iPS-associated tumorigenicity for safe CKD therapy.

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