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World J Stem Cells. Nov 26, 2014; 6(5): 644-650
Published online Nov 26, 2014. doi: 10.4252/wjsc.v6.i5.644
Potential advantages of acute kidney injury management by mesenchymal stem cells
Francesca Bianchi, Elisa Sala, Chiara Donadei, Irene Capelli, Gaetano La Manna
Francesca Bianchi, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering - National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
Elisa Sala, Chiara Donadei, Irene Capelli, Gaetano La Manna, Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, St Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, 40128 Bologna, Italy
Author contributions: Bianchi F, Sala E, Donadei C, Capelli I and La Manna G wrote the paper.
Correspondence to: Gaetano La Manna, MD, PhD, Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, St Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Zamboni, 33, 40128 Bologna, Italy. gaetano.lamanna@unibo.it
Telephone: +39-051-6364577 Fax: +39-051-344439
Received: July 28, 2014
Revised: September 8, 2014
Accepted: September 16, 2014
Published online: November 26, 2014
Core Tip

Core tip: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may have an important therapeutic potential in acute kidney injury management. A body of evidence has demonstrated that MSCs act through a paracrine/endocrine secretion of soluble factors and microvesicles. We summarize preclinical studies and ongoing clinical trials that evaluate the role of MSCs in restoring kidney function. We critically explain the current concerns about the use of MSCs and microvesicles that limit their applications in clinical trials. Then, we propose the future directions that could lead to extend MSCs use in humans.