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The Microbiome and Urolithiasis: Current Advancements and Future Challenges

  • Endourology (P Mucksavage and B Somani, Section Editors)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The aim of this review is to explore the effect of the microbiome on urolithiasis and explore recent advances and challenges in microbiome research for urolithiasis.

Recent Findings

Lack of standardization and shortcomings in study design for urinary microbiome research on urolithiasis has hampered the generalizability of results and weakened the impact of findings on clinical practice. Important study limitations include sample heterogenicity, specimen contamination, poor culture yields, and lack of shared datasets for meta-analysis.

Summary

Contrary to traditional teaching, the genitourinary tract is not a sterile environment. This urinary microbiome may influence the pathogenesis of urolithiasis, although the specific mechanisms are still currently being explored. Successful investigation will depend on consistency in study design and analysis, as well as sharing data and protocols across institutions. Developing an understanding of the relationship between the urinary microbiome and urolithiasis may lead to novel approaches to mitigate stone risk.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, 7200 Cambridge St. 10th Floor, Suite B, Office#A10157, Houston, TX, 77030, USA

    Sagar R. Patel, Catherine Ingram, Richard E. Link & Wesley A. Mayer

  2. Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA

    Jason M. Scovell

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  1. Sagar R. Patel
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  2. Catherine Ingram
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Correspondence to Wesley A. Mayer.

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Patel, S.R., Ingram, C., Scovell, J.M. et al. The Microbiome and Urolithiasis: Current Advancements and Future Challenges. Curr Urol Rep 23, 47–56 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11934-022-01088-8

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