Could Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improve Acute Nephrotoxicity in Rats: Biochemical, Histological and Immunohistochemical Study

Stem cell transplantation is emerging as a potential treatment option because of its capability to regenerate tissues and organs. Aim of the work: This study evaluated the effects of exogenous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the treatment of acute kidney injury induced by doxorubicin (DOX) in adult rats. The role of MSCs on renal epithelial cells apoptosis as well as its role on the integrity and adhesion of renal epithelial cells was evaluated. Material and methods: Rats were divided into three groups: group I: control group; group II: received single intraperitoneal injection of DOX (15mg/kg body weight) and group III: received DOX and after 48 hours, MSCs (2x10^5 cells/rat) were injected in a single dose via tail s vein. Plasma levels of urea, creatinine, albumin and total protein were measured. Kidney sections were subjected to H E, and immunohistochemical staining of CD44, p53 and E-cadherin. Results: The present study showed that MSCs significantly improved renal functional parameters, significantly decreased tubular cell apoptosis indicated by p53 immunohistochemical staining and improved the structural integrity and adhesion of renal epithelia indicated by significant increase in Ecadherin immunohistochemical staining as compared to DOX group. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that MSCs treatment improves DOX induced acute nephrotoxicity through decreasing the renal epithelial cells apoptosis and improving the integrity and cell to cell adhesion of renal epithelial cells.