Mechanism of Nephrolithiasis: Does the Microbiome Play a Role?

Nephrolithiasis imposes a significant health care burden around the world. In the past decade, there has been considerable interest in the human microbiota in relation to the onset of nephrolithiasis. Most of the research has focused on degradation of oxalate, a known causative factor for nephrolithiasis, by bacteria in the gut. More recently, the role of antibiotic exposure and changes to short-chain fatty acids have been investigated. Studies have revealed that the urinary tract, previously thought to be sterile, harbors resident microbial communities closely associated with nephrolithiasis. In this mini-review, we evaluate potential causative roles of the microbiome in the onset of nephrolithiasis and the development of novel therapies to prevent this disease. PATIENT SUMMARY: This mini-review discusses scientific evidence on the influence of bacteria in our intestines and urinary tract on the formation of kidney stones. We discuss possible therapies targeting these bacteria that could prevent kidney stones from forming.