Stem cells have been investigated as a potential therapy for kidney diseases, including acute and chronic kidney injury, which can sometimes result from severe kidney infections (pyelonephritis). The main rationale is that stem cells—especially mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)—have immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties that may help repair damaged kidney tissue and modulate the immune response during or after an infection. Preclinical studies in animal models have demonstrated that stem cell therapies can reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and improve kidney function following injury, including infection-induced damage.

However, the evidence supporting the use of stem cells specifically for treating active kidney infection in humans is still limited. Most clinical trials and research focus on kidney injury or chronic kidney disease rather than direct treatment of infection. There are a few early-phase clinical trials and case reports exploring stem cell therapy for kidney-related complications, but robust, large-scale human studies are lacking, and this approach is not currently standard care. Antibiotics remain the primary treatment for kidney infections, while stem cell research is mainly experimental and adjunctive, aimed at reducing long-term kidney damage rather than addressing the infection itself.

In summary, while there is scientific interest and some preclinical evidence suggesting potential benefit, the clinical evidence for stem cells in the direct treatment of kidney infection is limited, and more research is required before it can be routinely recommended.