Current Stem Cell Research & TherapyCurrent Stem Cell Research & TherapyCurrent Stem Cell Research & Therapy1574-888X2212-3946Bentham Science64568710.2174/1574888X18666230206115046MedicineResearch ArticleThe Beneficial Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Acute Kidney Injury: A Narrative ReviewLiuYuxianginfo@benthamscience.netHanJibininfo@benthamscience.netFangJingaiinfo@benthamscience.netLiRongshaninfo@benthamscience.netDepartment of Nephrology, Fifth Hospital of Shanxi Medical University (Shanxi Provincial People’s HospitalDepartment of Critical Care Medicine, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical UniversityDepartment of Nephrology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University,Department of Nephrology, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital0102202419220020911012025Copyright ©; 2024, Bentham Science Publishers2024Bentham Science Publishershttps://journals.eco-vector.com/1574-888X/article/view/645687

Background:Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a multifaced disease characterized by a rapid decline in renal function. However, with growing insight into the pathophysiologic mechanisms of AKI, currently available interventions for AKI are merely supportive. Thus, novel therapies are urgently needed to improve the outcomes of patients with AKI. This narrative review aims to explore enhancing the beneficial effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells(MSCs) in AKI.

Methods:The authors examined all studies regarding the role of MSCs in AKI. And the authors undertook a structured search of bibliographic databases for peer-reviewed research literature using a focused review question. The most relevant and up-to-date research was included.

Results and Discussion:Based on encouraging preclinical results, stem cell therapy has been widely explored over the last decade. Among the various stem cell types investigated, mesenchymal stem cells are being intensely investigated by virtue of their numerous strengths, such as easy derivation, undemanding cell culture conditions, anti-apoptosis, immunomodulation, and anti-inflammation effects. Mounting evidence suggests that MSCs hold great potential in accelerating kidney repair following AKI in various preclinical models. Unfortunately, low engrafting efficiency and poor survival rate of injected MSCs in the injured renal tissue are major obstacles MSCs clinical application faces.

Conclusion:Various strategies, including genetic manipulation, mimicking the cellular microenvironment with different culture conditions, optimizing MSCs preparation and administration schedule, and screening patients who may more like benefit from MSCs therapy, have been developed to enhance the therapeutic potential of MSCs in AKI.

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