Potential therapeutic effects of long-term stem cells administration: impact on the gene profile and kidney function of PKD/Mhm (Cy/+) rats [PKD_Jan19]

Cystic kidney disease (CKD) is a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders and one of the most common causes of end-stage renal disease. Here, we investigate the potential effects of long-term human stem cells treatment on kidney function and the gene expression profile of PKD/Mhm (Cy/+) rats. Human adipose derived stromal cells (ASC) and human skin-derived ABCB5+ stromal cells (2x106) were monthly, over a period of 6 months, infused intravenously or injected intraperitoneally. Additionally, ASC and ABCB5+ derived conditioned media were administrated intraperitoneally. Gene expression profile results showed a significant reprogramming of metabolism related pathways along with the down-regulation of cAMP, NF-?B and apoptosis pathways. During the experimental period, the principal renal parameters as well as renal function using an innovative non-invasive transcutaneous device were measured. All together, these analyses show a moderate amelioration of the renal function in ABCB5+ and ASC treated groups. Additionally, ABCB5+ and ASC derived conditioned media treatments lead to milder, but still promising improvements. Cell-based therapy may constitute a novel therapeutic approach in CKD. Overall design: Human adipose derived stromal cells (ASC) and ABCB5+ cells (2x106) were infused intravenously and injected intraperitoneally. Additionally, ASC and ABCB5+ derived conditioned media were administrated intraperitoneally. Gene expression profile results showed a significant reprogramming of metabolism related pathways along with the down-regulation of cAMP, NF-kB and apoptosis pathways. During the experimental period, the principal renal parameters as well as renal function using an innovative non-invasive transcutaneous device were measured. All together, these analyses show a moderate amelioration of the renal function in ABCB5+ and ASC treated groups. Additionally, ABCB5+ and ASC derived conditioned media treatments lead to milder, but still promising improvements. Cell-based therapy may constitute a novel therapeutic approach in CKD.