How cells communicate repair signals

Activated SOX9+ renal epithelial cells promote kidney repair through secreting factors

SOX9-positive renal epithelial cells showed secretion-related characteristics in injury models. Cell implantation or administration of conditioned medium promoted repair in mice, with S100A9 identified as a candidate key secreted factor.

What this study examined

• The study included mouse models, human kidney single-cell data and cultured human urine-derived cells
• Effective interventions involved cell implantation or administration of conditioned medium; these findings cannot be presented as clinical efficacy of an exosome gel applied to skin

Why the study matters

From cells to secreted signals: investigating how renal epithelial cells coordinate repair with surrounding tissue.