The mitochondrion serves as a critical intracellular organelle, engaging in essential roles in the regulation of energy production, oxidative stress management, calcium homeostasis, and apoptosis. One such disease that has been particularly associated with these functions is kidney stone disease (KSD), specifically calcium oxalate (CaOx). It is underpinned by oxidative stress and tissue inflammation. Recent studies have shed light on the vital involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction, the nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, endoplasmic reticulum stress and subsequent cell death in CaOx crystal retention and aggregation. These processes are pivotal in the pathogenesis of kidney stone formation. This review focuses on the pivotal roles of mitochondria in renal cell functions and provides an overview of the intricate interconnectedness between mitochondrial dysfunction and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the context of KSD. It is essential to recognise the utmost significance of gaining a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms that safeguard mitochondrial function and regulate the NLRP3 inflammasome. Such knowledge carries significant scientific implications and opens up promising avenues for the development of innovative strategies to prevent the formation of kidney stones.
BJU international. 2024 Jul 05 [Epub ahead of print]
Boyan Su, YaLin Ren, Weimin Yao, Yue Su, Qiqi He
Department of Urology, Key Laboratory of Disease of Urological Systems, Gansu Nepho-Urological Clinical Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China., Department of Urology, Tongji Medical College Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China., The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China.