CKD Treatment In India: The Regenerative Approach of Stem Cell Therapy

Chronic kidney diseases (CKD) are a prominent cause of mortality. The standard therapies currently employed for CKD only delay the progression of the disease into complete renal failure. At the end stage, transplant remains the only option. Scientists have been exploring several avenues to halt the progression or repair the kidney damage. Amidst the ongoing research, stem cell treatment for chronic kidney disease has shown the utmost potential. 

It follows the core principles of regenerative medicine to repair the damage by either transforming into kidney cells or inducing inherent organ healing. Furthermore, they also target mechanisms of CKD to prevent further organ deterioration. With the growing evidence in favor of this therapy, more patients are requesting the treatment. The affordability and integration of state-of-the-art techniques have attracted several patients to seek CKD Treatment in India, in comparison to Western countries.

Stem Cell Treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Before exploring why CKD treatment in India is preferred, let’s understand stem cell treatment for chronic kidney disease. Through the following ways, stem cells address the kidney disease:

• They secrete factors such as bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that have protective effects on kidney cells.
• Infusion of these cells also decreases the inflammatory mediators such as NF-κB, TNFα, ICAM1, PAI-1, etc. Inflammation typically aggravates the disease by recruiting immune cells to the organ.
• These cells also release factors such as hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), VEGF, and TSG6 that prevent the loss of kidney blood vessels.
• They also mitigate fibrosis by diminishing the expression of CCL2, CCL5, TNFα, α-SMA, fibronectin, and collagen IV, which prevents a decline in kidney structure.
• These cells also develop into different kidney cells, including tubular and capillary cells, to replenish the lost cells and maintain the organ architecture.

The studies on animal models have shown a significant decline in the markers of kidney fibrosis, indicating the kidney repair and reversal of damage.

Clinical Evidence

The positive outcomes in animals have encouraged the application of Stem Cell Treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease in humans. Most trials have utilized mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from different sources. In 2014, a clinical study enrolled 40 patients at different centres and injected them with umbilical cord MSCs. A year-long follow-up revealed a decrease in disease markers (serum creatinine, urea nitrogen) and improved renal function. Several other clinical trials have reported similar results. 

An 18-month-long clinical study that aimed to estimate the safety of the therapy also demonstrated that the treatment was well-tolerated. Another 8-year-long trial on this therapy showed reduced incidence of diabetic nephropathy. It also established that within 8 years, the treatment with stem cells did not result in any malignant condition in patients. These results support the therapy for chronic kidney disease as a safe and effective treatment modality.

Challenges

Despite the favorable results, stem cells are still not included in the mainstream treatment. The rationale behind it is listed as follows:

• Cell Preparation: The manufacturing process requires strictly controlled conditions and standard protocols to ensure the final product has the most potent cells and also shows consistency between batches. Therefore, stem cells should be prepared in a certified lab following defined protocols.
• Quality Control: A series of tests should be run to ensure various parameters regarding stem cells- viability, purity, phenotype, etc. These tests should be uniform for each sample to eliminate sample variability and its effects.
• Treatment Protocol: A standard treatment protocol includes the dosage of stem cells, delivery route, time interval between dosages, etc. It assures the benefits of the treatment and also minimizes the risk associated with it.

Each step in cell extraction, manufacturing, and treatment is vital. Any modifications to it can also alter the treatment response. So far, the clinical trials have varied in these factors. It has hindered the standardization of the product and protocol, which in turn, has delayed the inclusion of the therapy in the standard treatment.

CKD Treatment In India

Keeping aside the factors that have impeded the optimization process, the stem cell therapy has captivated the interest of patients especially those with substantial kidney damage. The therapy is available in several countries. But stem cell therapy for kidney disorder in India has become the favorable choice for many due to the following reasons:

• Cost-Effective Treatments: CKD treatment in India is available at considerably lower cost than other countries.
• Advanced Infrastructure: Despite the low cost of treatment, the country does not compromise on quality and provides cutting-edge technology for therapy.
• Experienced Professional: India has invested in regenerative medicine and collaborated internationally on many projects that have inculcated expertise and skills in its clinicians.
• Minimal Wait:  In comparison to many Western countries, CKD treatment in India is available much swiftly. There is no need for long waiting periods for consultation with doctors or treatment.
• Regulatory Framework: Indian government has laid down strict regulatory guidelines that warrant that both private and government institutions work within the confines ethical considerations, minimizing the unethical use of stem cell therapy for kidney disorder in India.
• Standardized Stem Cells: The guidelines of the Indian government also govern the manufacturing process of stem cells. For instance, Advancells, a key stem cell provider in Delhi, follows all GMP-compliant protocols in an ISO-certified BSL-2 laboratory. These protocols foster trust in stem cell products and stem cell therapy for chronic kidney in Delhi.

Stem Cell Therapy for Chronic Kidney Disease in Delhi

Advancells have contributed to the growth of regenerative medicine and CKD treatment in India. It has shaped the Stem Cell Therapy for Chronic Kidney Disease in Delhi. The company has earned recognition as a reliable stem cell manufacturer due to the following reasons:

• Expertise: Advancells has integrated a team of scientists with expertise in regenerative medicine. This team meticulously manufactures products and thoroughly conducts tests to guarantee quality.
• Adherence to Guidelines: Advancells has received certifications from government agencies like GMP and ISO, which instil credibility in its products.
• Patient Support: The team at the company understands the needs of patients. They provide every minute detail of the therapy and offer support at every level- pre-treatment, during treatment, and post-treatment.

Conclusion

Lack of adequate treatment modalities for CKD has turned the tide in favor of regenerative medicine. Stem cells repair kidney damage and target the disease mechanisms. It significantly reduces disease activity and improves renal function. Backed by clinical studies, patients are opting for this therapy with India as the preferred destination. The country incorporates expertise and high-level infrastructure at affordable prices. Advancells lie at the center of stem cell treatment for chronic kidney disease in Delhi, India. It provides premium-quality stem cells with batch-to-batch consistency to maximize the benefits of the therapy. With such private sector investments, India will soon soar high in the field of regenerative medicine.

FAQ’s

Q- How do stem cells treat chronic kidney diseases?

Stem cells alleviate inflammation, reduce fibrosis, regenerate the organ by transforming into renal cells, and secrete factors that protect kidney cells and capillaries. Their reparative and preventive actions form a dual approach that decreases the disease markers and improves organ function.

Q- Is stem cell infusion for CKD safe?

Clinical trials have not yet presented any evidence of complications arising from stem cells. A 8-year-long study also supports that therapy is well-tolerated, implying it to be safe.

Q- What type of stem cells are used in treating kidney diseases?

Most clinical studies have used mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from sources like umbilical cord, bone marrow, or adipose tissue. These cells are known for their anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and tissue-regenerative properties, which are beneficial in treating CKD.

Q- Why India is a preferred destination for stem cell CKD treatment?

India offers affordable, high-quality treatment, with access to GMP-certified labs and skilled professionals. Providers like Advancells also comply with regulatory standards, ensuring safety and consistency of their products.