Treatment With Human Whartons Jelly-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuates Sepsis-Induced Kidney Injury, Liver Injury, and Endothelial Dysfunction

The pathophysiology of sepsis involves complex cytokine and inflammatory mediator networks. Downregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase contributes to sepsis-induced endothelial dysfunction. Human Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) are known to reduce expression of proinflammatory cytokines and markers of apoptosis. We hypothesized that treatment with WJ-MSCs would protect renal, hepatic, and endothelial function in a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model of sepsis in rats. Rats were randomly divided into three groups: sham-operated rats; rats submitted to CLP and left untreated; and rats submitted to CLP and intraperitoneally injected, 6 hours later, with 1 x 106 WJ-MSCs. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was measured at 6 and 24 hours after CLP or sham surgery. All other studies were conducted at 24 hours after CLP or sham surgery. By 6 hours, GFR had decreased in the CLP rats. At 24 hours, Klotho renal expression significantly decreased. Treatment with WJ-MSCs improved the GFR; improved tubular function; decreased the CD68-positive cell count; decreased the fractional interstitial area; decreased expression of nuclear factor B and of cytokines; increased expression of eNOS, vascular endothelial growth factor, and Klotho; attenuated renal apoptosis; ameliorated hepatic function; increased glycogen deposition in the liver; and improved survival. Sepsis-induced acute kidney injury is a state of Klotho deficiency, which WJ-MSCs can atte...
Source: Stem Cells Translational Medicine - Category: Stem Cells Authors: Tags: Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Enabling Technologies for Cell-Based Clinical Translation Source Type: research