Investigating the nephrogenic potential of mouse embryonic stem cells and their derivatives

Abstract

The kidneys are important organs that regulate the level of water and salts in the blood, produce hormones that help to control blood pressure, and maintain homeostasis of the organism by filtering waste products. Kidney disease can either be acute or chronic, the latter progressively worsening over time to become end stage renal disease (ESRD) – a stage when kidneys are non-functional. At present, the only treatment options for ESRD are transplantation or dialysis, which both have severe drawbacks in terms of morbidity, mortality and economic cost. Moreover, the incidence of ESRD is rising annually and an alternative therapy is needed. Therefore, in order to regenerate kidney tissue or prevent worsening of the kidney condition, a new therapy should be developed. One approach is to use embryonic stem cells.