Crescentic Glomerulonephritis: Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Potential of Human Amniotic Stem Cells

Ahmed Al Mushafi, Joshua D. Ooi, Dragana Odobasic

Research output: Contribution to journalReview ArticleResearchpeer-review

9 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) leads to significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Glomerulonephritis (GN) is the second leading cause of CKD resulting in end stage renal failure. The most severe and rapidly progressive type of GN is characterized by glomerular crescent formation. The current therapies for crescentic GN, which consist of broad immunosuppressive drugs, are partially effective, non-specific, toxic and cause many serious side effects including infections, cancer, and cardiovascular problems. Therefore, new and safer therapies are needed. Human amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs) are a type of stem cell which are isolated from the placenta after birth. They represent an attractive and novel therapeutic option for the treatment of various inflammatory conditions owing to their unique and selective immunosuppressive ability, as well as their excellent safety profile and clinical applicability. In this review, we will discuss the immunopathogenesis of crescentic GN, issues with currently available treatments and how hAECs offer potential to become a new and harmless treatment option for this condition.

Original languageEnglish
Article number724186
Number of pages13
JournalFrontiers in Physiology
Volume12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Oct 2021

Keywords

  • chronic kidney disease
  • crescentic glomerulonephritis
  • human amniotic stem cells
  • immunity
  • inflammation

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