How does G-CSF act on the kidney during acute tubular injury?

Recent findings in stem cell research have demonstrated multi-lineage plasticity of bone marrow cells, and also the contribution of hematopoietic bone marrow stem cells to the regeneration of injured organs including the kidney. These findings suggested the possibility of the use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) as a therapeutic option to regenerate injured organs. Recently, several studies regarding the effect of G-CSF on renal function have been reported in mouse models of acute renal failure. This series of experiments provided potentially important information regarding the treatment of patients with renal injury. This review summarizes the possible actions of G-CSF on the kidney, especially during acute tubular injury caused by toxic or ischemic insults. Copyright 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.