Histological evaluation of renal progenitor/stem cells, renal mesenchymal stem-like cells, and endothelial progenitor cells in chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease, and molecular docking analysis of drug-receptor interactions

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are prevalent and debilitating conditions with a significant impact on patients' quality of life. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation into the histological characteristics of renal progenitor/stem cells (RPCs), renal mesenchymal stem-like cells, and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in CKD and ESRD patients. Additionally, we performed a molecular docking analysis to explore potential drug-receptor interactions involving common medications prescribed to CKD patients. Our histological examination revealed a noteworthy increase in the number of CD24- and CD133-positive cells in CKD and ESRD patients, representing RPCs. These cells are implicated in kidney repair and regeneration, underscoring their potential role in CKD management. Moreover, we observed an elevation in the number of EPCs within the kidneys of CKD and ESRD patients, suggesting a protective role of EPCs in kidney preservation. The molecular docking analysis unveiled intriguing insights into potential drug interventions. Notably, digoxin exhibited the highest in-silico binding affinity to numerous receptors associated with the functions of RPCs, renal mesenchymal stem-like cells, and EPCs, emphasizing the potential multifaceted effects of this cardiac glycoside in CKD patients. Other drugs, including apixaban, glimepiride, and glibenclamide, also displayed strong in-silico affinities to specific receptors, indicating their potential influence on various renal cell functions. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the histological alterations in renal cell populations in CKD and ESRD patients and underscores the potential roles of RPCs and EPCs in kidney repair and preservation. The molecular docking analysis reveals the complex interactions between common drugs and renal cells, suggesting the need for further in-vitro and in-vivo research to fully understand these relationships. These findings contribute to our understanding of CKD and offer new avenues for research into potential therapeutic interventions.