Stem cell therapy to reverse kidney disease due to diabetes

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus continues to increase worldwide leading to premature mortality. About 30% of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) progress to end-stage renal failure as a result of ongoing kidney damage is the progressive accumulation of extracellular matrix/collagen (fibrosis). Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are being developed as a new therapy due to their ability to elicit tissue repair and regeneration through the secretion of an array of anti-inflammatory proteins. Moreover, the ability of MSCs to transfer larger molecules through cytoplasmic exosomes suggests their potential usefulness as delivery vehicles for therapeutic treatment. However, a challenge is to promote survival of the transplanted MSCs in the harsh inflammatory diabetic kidneys. In order to overcome this challenge, we are testing matrices such as injectable hydrogels, which can be used as a depot for transplanted cells. This project will fully exploit a cell delivery system using genetically bioengineered MSCs and cell-derived exosomes that will be able to enhance the survival and efficacy of MSC following transplantation.