The invention provides for methods of treating, abating and reducing the risk for intestinal injury by administering a combination heparin binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF) and stem cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells or intestinal stem cells, in an amount effective to reduce the onset or severity of intestinal injury. The invention also provides for methods of promoting engraftment of stem cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells or intestinal stem cells, within the intestine of a patient suffering from intestinal injury.
