The European Renal Association (ERA) Congress is one of the world’s most influential academic gatherings in nephrology, bringing together kidney disease researchers, clinicians, and innovators from across the globe. The 63rd ERA Congress (ERA 2026) showcased cutting-edge advances in kidney disease prevention, treatment, and translational research.
At this prestigious event, the Nephrology Department of Tongji Hospital (affiliated with Huazhong University of Science and Technology) made a remarkable showing: over 10 research studies were accepted for presentation, including 1 free communication, 10 oral presentations, and 3 electronic posters. Led by Professor Xu Gang, the team demonstrated sustained innovation across chronic kidney disease management, precision treatment for immune nephropathy, kidney injury repair, and vascular calcification mechanisms.
Table of Contents
- Stem Cell Therapy for Chronic Kidney Disease
- Precision Treatment for Immune Nephropathy
- Vascular Calcification Mechanism Breakthrough
- Acute Kidney Injury and Hypertensive Nephropathy
- Future Outlook
- Sources
Stem Cell Therapy for Chronic Kidney Disease
One of the most notable presentations was a two-year double-blind randomized controlled trial investigating human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 3-4. This study represents a significant step forward in regenerative medicine for kidney disease.
Key Finding: Short-term intravenous infusion of umbilical cord MSCs showed promising results in slowing CKD progression over a two-year follow-up period, offering a potential new therapeutic avenue for patients with moderate-to-severe chronic kidney disease.
Mesenchymal stem cells have garnered significant attention in nephrology due to their:
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Modulating immune responses that drive kidney damage
- Paracrine effects: Secreting factors that promote tissue repair and regeneration
- Anti-fibrotic activity: Reducing scarring and preserving kidney function
Precision Treatment for Immune Nephropathy
A major focus of Tongji’s presentations was precision treatment for immune-mediated kidney diseases, particularly IgA nephropathy, lupus nephritis, and Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis. Several studies featured Telitacicept (a novel dual BAFF/APRIL inhibitor) and Belimumab in various treatment regimens.
Key Studies:
1. Telitacicept + Tacrolimus + Reduced Steroids for Active Lupus Nephritis: This combination therapy demonstrated efficacy in controlling disease activity while minimizing steroid exposure, addressing a critical need in lupus nephritis management where long-term steroid side effects remain a major concern.
2. Telitacicept + Narsoplimab Sequential Therapy for IgA Nephropathy: Real-world data showed promising outcomes with this novel sequential approach, combining complement inhibition with BAFF/APRIL blockade to target multiple pathogenic pathways in IgA nephropathy.
3. Belimumab for IgA Nephropathy — Real-World Efficacy and Safety: This study provided valuable real-world evidence supporting Belimumab’s role in IgA nephropathy treatment, complementing clinical trial data with practical clinical experience.
4. Telitacicept for Severe Purpura Nephritis with Nephrotic Syndrome: A compelling case analysis demonstrated Telitacicept’s potential in treating refractory cases of Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis presenting with nephrotic-range proteinuria.
Vascular Calcification Mechanism Breakthrough
Vascular calcification is a critical complication of chronic kidney disease, contributing to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Tongji’s team presented several mechanistic studies elucidating the pathways driving this process.
Spatial Single-Cell Analysis:
A groundbreaking study used spatial single-cell phenotypic analysis to dissect the pathological architecture of vascular calcification in chronic kidney disease. This advanced technique revealed:
- Cellular heterogeneity in calcified vessels
- Spatial distribution of calcification-prone cell populations
- Novel therapeutic targets for preventing vascular calcification
Epigenetic Mechanisms:
Two studies focused on epigenetic regulation of vascular calcification:
1. DNMT3A and Arginine Metabolism: Research demonstrated that DNMT3A (DNA methyltransferase 3A) mediates vascular calcification through regulation of arginine metabolism, providing new insights into the epigenetic control of this pathological process.
2. THOC5 and RhoA Transcriptional Regulation: Another study identified THOC5 as a key regulator that inhibits vascular calcification by modulating RhoA post-transcriptional pathways, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies targeting this axis.
Acute Kidney Injury and Hypertensive Nephropathy
Beyond chronic kidney disease, Tongji’s research addressed acute kidney injury (AKI) and hypertensive nephropathy, two conditions with significant clinical impact.
Acute Kidney Injury Mechanisms:
A study on branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism revealed that metabolic disturbances exacerbate AKI through Miro1-mediated regulation of mitochondrial autophagy in renal tubular epithelial cells. This finding:
- Links metabolic dysfunction to mitochondrial quality control in AKI
- Identifies Miro1 as a potential therapeutic target
- Provides new insights into metabolic interventions for AKI prevention
Hypertensive Nephropathy:
Research on renal lymphangiogenesis demonstrated that new lymphatic vessel formation mediates the development and progression of hypertensive nephropathy. This study:
- Highlights the role of lymphatic system in kidney disease
- Suggests lymphangiogenesis as a novel therapeutic target
- Opens new avenues for preventing hypertensive kidney damage
Future Outlook
The impressive showing at ERA 2026 reflects Tongji Hospital Nephrology’s commitment to “clinical problem-oriented, basic research-driven, translation-focused” development. Under Professor Xu Gang’s leadership, the department has consistently produced high-quality original research across:
- Clinical research: Real-world studies and randomized controlled trials
- Mechanistic exploration: Basic science uncovering disease pathways
- Difficult case management: Innovative approaches for refractory conditions
Looking ahead, the department aims to:
- Strengthen team building and cultivate young nephrology researchers
- Deepen exploration of kidney disease frontiers
- Accelerate translation of laboratory discoveries to clinical practice
- Continue elevating regional and national kidney disease care standards
The success at ERA 2026 positions Tongji Hospital as a leading center for nephrology research in China and enhances its international academic influence. For patients with kidney disease, these advances translate to better treatment options, more precise therapeutic strategies, and ultimately, improved outcomes.