Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Chronic Kidney Disease via NADPH Oxidase

Abstract
Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by progressive and irreversible loss of renal function, largely driven by glomerular and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Oxidative stress, particularly through excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated by NADPH oxidases (NOX), plays a central role in renal inflammation and fibrotic progression. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on oxidative stress and fibrosis in a nephrectomy-induced CKD rat model.
Methods: CKD was induced in rats by surgical nephrectomy. Human placenta-derived MSCs were administered following CKD induction. Renal tissues were analyzed for oxidative stress parameters, including ROS, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and NADPH oxidase-4 (NOX4), as well as fibrosis-related markers such as fibronectin, collagen IV, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Outcomes were compared between experimental groups.
Results: MSC treatment significantly reduced ROS, H₂O₂, and NOX4 levels, indicating attenuation of oxidative stress. In addition, fibrosis-related markers, including fibronectin, collagen IV, and α-SMA, were markedly decreased in the MSC-treated group, suggesting improvement in renal fibrotic changes.
Conclusion: Human placenta-derived MSCs exert protective effects against oxidative stress and fibrosis in experimental CKD. These findings support the potential of MSC-based therapies as a promising regenerative approach for slowing CKD progression and warrant further investigation.