Formulation of Selected Renal Cells for Implantation into a Kidney

Delivery of cells to organs has primarily relied on formulating the cells in a nonviscous liquid carrier. We have developed a methodology to isolate selected renal cells (SRC) that have provided functional stability to damaged kidneys in preclinical models (Kelley et al. Poster presentation at 71st scientific sessions of American diabetes association , 2011; Kelley et al. Oral presentation given at Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine International Society (TERMIS)— North America annual conference, 2010; Presnell et al. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 17:261–273, 2011; Kelley et al. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 299:F1026–F1039, 2010). In order to facilitate SRC injection into the kidney of patients who have chronic kidney disease, we have developed a strategy to immobilize the cells in a hydrogel matrix. This hydrogel (gelatin) supports cells by maintaining them in a three-dimensional state during storage and shipment (both at cold temperatures) while facilitating the delivery of cells by liquefying when engrafting into the kidney. This chapter will define a method for the formulation of the kidney epithelial cells within a hydrogel.