Effects of xenogeneic transplantation of umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells combined with irbesartan on renal podocyte damage in diabetic rats

• Combined MSC and irbesartan therapy significantly reduces proteinuria, renal dysfunction, and inflammation in diabetic nephropathy rats. • MSCs home to damaged kidneys, enhancing targeted delivery of therapeutic effects. • The combination outperforms monotherapy in protecting glomerular podocytes, suggesting a synergistic mechanism. • Findings support potential clinical translation of MSC-based combination therapy for diabetic nephropathy.