Stem Cells May Gradually Replace Antirejection Drugs For Kidney Transplant Patients

Source: Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Date: January 23, 2008

Summary:

After transplant surgery, antirejection drugs for the organ recipient are a must. But prolonged use can have serious side effects, including infections, heart disease and even cancer. A new study seeks to eliminate the need for antirejection drugs by transplanting stem cells from a kidney donor's bone marrow into the organ recipient. Researchers at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine are working with Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s department of organ transplantation to enroll qualifying subjects in a new research study that seeks to transplants stem cells from a kidney donor’s bone marrow into the recipient, with the hope of gradually eliminating the need for anti-rejection drugs. If research proves successful, it would mean a dramatic change in the post-transplant quality of life for the transplant recipient.

Stem Cell Therapy Disappoints Against Rare Kidney Ailment

Source: HealthDay News
Date: September 12, 2007

Summary:

In a disheartening result that confounds existing research, a team in France says a new stem cell therapy for a rare kidney disease is no better than the usual chemotherapy-only approach. But there's also some good news. The study doesn't reject the possibility that stem-cell transplants may be a better bet in facilities that specialize in the procedure.