Attempt to Regenerate Aging Kidneys Using a Renal Tubule Regeneration System Utilizing Renal Stem Cells

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 20K08596
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 53040:Nephrology-related
• Research Institution: Saitama Medical University
• Principal Investigator: MAESHIMA AKITO 埼玉医科大学, 医学部, 教授 (70431707)
• Project Period (FY): 2020-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: 尿細管再生 / 腎幹細胞 / 急性腎障害

Outline of Final Research Achievements

In this study, we analyzed the proliferation and differentiation patterns of renal stem cells using Doxycycline-induced Histone 2B-GFP mice. By labeling the slowly dividing renal stem cells with GFP, we found that the number of GFP-positive tubular cells increased proportionally during the Doxycycline administration period, while it decreased inversely during the follow-up period. Based on these results, it was revealed that tubular cells that actively proliferate (regenerate) after renal injury also undergo slow division under normal conditions. By further elucidating the proliferation and differentiation patterns of renal stem cells using this mouse model, it is believed that the realization of renal regenerative medicine utilizing a "urinary tubule regeneration system based on renal stem cells" becomes possible.

Free Research Field

腎臓内科学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

本研究の成果は「腎幹細胞を起点とする尿細管再生システム」を利用した「腎再生医療」の確立に大きく貢献するものと思われる。内在する腎幹細胞を活性化し、腎臓が本来有している再生能力を最大限発揮させることにより、腎疾患の原因によらず腎機能が低下した症例に対して、「腎幹細胞を起点とする尿細管再生システム」を基盤とした「腎再生医療」が可能になる。また、加齢により失われた腎幹細胞を増加させて、尿細管再生システムを再び活性化することができれば、高齢者腎不全あるいは透析導入患者数の減少につながることが期待できると思われる。