Transplantation of mature adipocyte-derived dedifferentiated fat cells for the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux in a rat model

Autologous cells potentially provide an ideal injectable substance for management in vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). The aim of this study is to examine the effects of mature adipocyte-derived dedifferentiated fat (DFAT) cell transplantation on VUR in a rat bladder pressurization-induced VUR model. To create VUR, Sprague-Dawley rats underwent urethral clamping and placement of cystostomy followed by intravesical pressurization. Rat DFAT cells (1 x 10(6) cells, DFAT group, n = 5) or saline (control group, n = 5) was then injected into the bilateral vesicoureteral junctions. Two weeks later, VUR grade was evaluated on cystography. The number of apoptotic cells in the renal pelvic urothelium, the ureteral inner/outer diameter ratio and the area of connective tissue in the posterior bladder wall were measured. The reflux grade in the DFAT group was significantly lower than that in the control group. The number of apoptotic cells in the renal pelvic urothelium, ureteral inner/outer diameter ratio and connective tissue area in DFAT group were significantly lower in comparison with the control group. DFAT cell transplantation improved VUR and exerted nephroprotective effects in a rat VUR model.