Intestinal microbiota and kidney diseases

Abstract

Large microbial communities reside in the gut as an endogenous organ and interact with the host physiology through symbiotic relationships, affecting health. Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing techniques have made it possible to better understand these complex microbial communities and their effects on hosts. Animal and clinical studies have provided considerable evidence to show that the microbiota plays an important role in chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, nephrolithiasis, and kidney transplantation by altering the functions of the intestinal barrier, regulating local and systemic inflammation, controlling production of metabolic components, and affecting immune responses. Although the exact mechanism underlying the microbial shift and its impact on disease progression remains uncertain, the kidney-gut interaction clearly plays a significant role in onset and progression of kidney disease and, therefore, holds promise as a therapeutic target. Here, we review recent literature pertaining to the bidirectional relationship between microbes and humans in various kidney diseases and discuss the future direction of microbial research in nephrology.

Effects of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Synbiotics on Uremic Toxins, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress in Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

“…The dysbiosis of gut microbiota due to an increased urea secretion into the digestive system contributes to circulating uremic toxins, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, cardiovascular events, and other complications in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) [ 1 , 2 ]. Although hemodialysis is an advanced kidney replacement therapy, the morbidity and mortality remain unacceptable [ 3 ].…”

Role of T cells in ischemic acute kidney injury and repair

“…Also, transfer of stool from WT post-IRI mice led to exacerbation of renal injury in GF mice [ 99 ]. The gut microbiota exerts immunomodulatory effects via its metabolites [ 100 , 101 ]. These include short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which have an anti-inflammatory effect by modulating immune cell function.…”

Uremic Toxins and Protein-Bound Therapeutics in AKI and CKD: Up-to-Date Evidence

“…SCFAs are the metabolites of gut microbiota and serve as the energy source for intestinal epithelial cells, immune modulation, and strengthening intestinal integrity [38,39]. Since gut microbiota and its microenvironment govern PBUTs production, immune regulation, and kidney disease progression, the research about the management of gut bacterial in AKI and CKD is blooming and their therapeutic efficacy is worthy of further exploration [40][41][42].…”