Allogeneic umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells for treatment of refractory lupus nephritis: a real-world study

Several human studies show positive signals, while research methods and sample sizes continue to develop.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Objectives This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effects of allogeneic umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (UC-MSCs) on refractory lupus nephritis (LN) and to evaluate the benefits for patients with different baseline renal functions. Methods A total of 120 eligible patients with refractory LN were included in this study. Primary outcomes were the rate of renal response and relapse. Secondary outcomes included laboratory parameters and prednisone dosage. Adverse events (AEs) were recorded using telephone questionnaires and the medical record system. Results Cumulative renal response rates at 3, 6, and 12 months were 38.3% (46/120), 53.3% (64/120), and 56.7% (68/120), respectively. Cumulative relapse rates at 6 and 12 months were 2.9% (2/68) and 8.8% (6/68), respectively. At the 12-month mark, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) significantly improved in chronic kidney disease stages 2 (CKD 2) and 3a (CKD 3a) patients (P = 0.032 and P = 0.046, respectively). Patients with a baseline eGFR of ≥ 45 ml/min/1.73 m² had a substantially higher renal response rate (66.3%). A baseline eGFR of ≥ 45 ml/min/1.73 m² was an independent predictor for renal response (OR = 2.104, 95% CI 1.063-4.167). One hundred twenty patients received 146 UC-MSCs infusions. Hyperacute AEs occurred in 2.1% (3/146) and infections in 10.9% (16/146). No severe AEs occurred. Conclusion

Evidence level

Several human studies show positive signals, while research methods and sample sizes continue to develop.

Browse all related research

Filter the research library by this study's title keywords, author, or publication year.