Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Transplantation Reverses Multiorgan Impairment in Mice with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder, leading to immune-mediated organ injury. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effect of human adipose-derived stem cell (hADSC) transplantation on multiorgan damage in MRL/lpr mice. Conclusion These results indicate that hADSCs may ameliorate multiorgan damage associated with SLE.

Urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR), serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA), interleukin-4 (IL-4), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) levels were measured in MRL/lpr mice to evaluate changes in renal function and immune status. The spleen and lymph node indices were calculated. Heart, spleen, lymph node, skin and kidney tissues were stained to visualize pathological changes. Semiquantitative analysis of haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining across multiple organs and Masson staining of kidneys were performed, followed by laser confocal tracing of stem cells.

Compared with the model group, the hADSC-treated MRL/lpr group had significantly lower ACR, anti-ds-DNA, IFN-γ, IL-4 levels, spleen and lymph node indices (p < .01), and lymph node scores (p < .05). hADSC transplantation also improved renal dysfunction and immune function, significantly reducing pathological damage to tissues, including the kidney and heart (p < .01) and the spleen and lymph nodes (p < .05). Furthermore, hADSC treatment significantly alleviated renal fibrosis (p < .01) in MRL/lpr mice.

These results indicate that hADSCs may ameliorate multiorgan damage associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).