Resident Stem Cells in Kidney Tissue

Adult stem/progenitor cells have been identified in different segments of the kidney (papilla, cortex, tubules, and interstitium). Detection of these cells is based on classical stem-cell features, such as a slow cell cycle and multipotential capacity, as well as the expression of surface markers, like Sca-1, CD133, and CD24. The lack of kidney-specific stem/progenitor cell markers creates a challenge for their identification in the adult kidney. Although beneficial applications of these cells have been described, their role in renal tissue maintenance and repair is still unknown. Kidney regeneration after injury seems to involve different cell types and mechanisms, and renal stem/progenitor cells may play an important role in this process. It remains to be seen whether these cells can contribute to the establishment and progression of renal disorders, as well as playing a role in renal cancer development. Understanding these issues will help to develop new therapeutic strategies for kidney diseases.