The kidney is a highly complex organ, and acute or chronic renal diseases can occur with various complications such as diabetes and hypertension. So far, no target specific treatment is available in acute or chronic renal failure, necessitating the development of alternative therapeutic strategy. Recent experimental findings suggest that the renal function and structure can be restored after being treated with various sources of stem/progenitor cells. In this review, we discuss up-to-date findings of the potential of renal progenitor/stem cells in alleviating renal injuries with a focus on preclinical studies. We also review cellular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic function of these cells.

ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION
RENAL STEM/PROGENITOR CELLS
CHARACTERIZATION OF RENAL PROGENITORCELLS
CONCLUSION
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
ORCID
REFERENCES

• Jeong Hyun Jo(Graduate School of International Agricultural Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea)
• Ki Hoon Kim(Graduate School of International Agricultural Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea)
• Tae Min Kim(Graduate School of International Agricultural Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea, Institute of Green-Bio Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang, 25354, Korea) Corresponding author