Advances in the Knowledge about Kidney Decellularization and Repopulation

Abstract

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is characterized by the progressive deterioration of renal function that may compromise different tissues and organs. The major treatment indicated for patients with ESRD is kidney transplantation. However, the shortage of available organs, as well as the high rate of organ rejection, supports the need for new therapies. Thus, the implementation of tissue bioengineering to organ regeneration has emerged as an alternative to traditional organ transplantation. Decellularization of organs with chemical, physical, and/or biological agents generates natural scaffolds, which can serve as basis for tissue reconstruction. The recellularization of these scaffolds with different cell sources, such as stem cells or adult differentiated cells, can provide an organ with functionality and no immune response after in vivo transplantation on the host. Several studies have focused on improving these techniques, but until now, there is no optimal decellularization method for the kidney available yet. Herein, an overview of the current literature for kidney decellularization and whole-organ recellularization is presented, addressing the pros and cons of the actual techniques already developed, the methods adopted to evaluate the efficacy of the procedures, and the challenges to be overcome in order to achieve an optimal protocol.

Advances in the Application of Biomimetic Endometrium Interfaces for Uterine Bioengineering in Female Infertility

“…At the same time, it should not introduce external cellular components or cause immune rejection. However, partial cell residuals remain a nonnegligible issue that prevents translational application of this technique (Destefani et al, 2017). Therefore, these different technological approaches to endometrium regeneration by tissue engineering have their merits and shortcomings that wait for further researches and investigation on possible solutions and improvement.…”

Relevance of Protein Content within the Renal Scaffold for Kidney Bioengineering and Regeneration

“…Kidney decellularization has been successfully achieved using a variety of approaches and protocols. Recently, Destefani et al showed a comprehensive investigation about different protocols for rat kidney decellularization [19]. Although, to date no specific protocol has demonstrated to be superior to the others.…”

A critical review of current progress in 3D kidney biomanufacturing: advances, challenges, and recommendations

“…The kidney involves the complex interplay between 26 different cell types derived from the ureteric bud and metanephrogenic mesenchyme [56]. In view of this, many of these native cells have been suggested for use in repair/regeneration of kidneys [57,58].…”

“…Decellularization as a process aims to remove residual cellular material whilst preserving the native structure, protein ratio, and location of inherent biological cues including glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), proteins including collagen I and IV, laminin, and fibronectin [180] to retain in vivo-like function and proliferation following reseeding [181,182]. These factors may help promote and support multiple cell types and thus provide efficient and effective kidney regeneration [56]. Cellular material and immunogens must be eliminated since they may initiate inflammatory response [183], ultimately leading to immune rejection following transplantation.…”