Bone marrow-derived progenitor cells and renal fibrosis

Abstract

Bone marrow-derived cells modulate solid organ diseases. For example, the different immune cell populations mediate tissue inflammation and damage, whereas progenitor cell populations are thought to enhance tissue regeneration. However, in the process of tissue fibrosis the contribution of either cell type is less clear. Here we discuss current concepts on how different bone marrow-derived progenitor cell populations may contribute to renal fibrosis.