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Nephrolithiasis: nutrition as cause or therapeutic tool
Irene Brenna1, Elena Dogliotti, Annalisa Terranegra
1Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via A, Di Rudini 8, 20142, Milano, Italy. irene.brenna@unimi.it
Journal of Translational Medicine
|July 30, 2013
Summary
Nephrolithiasis, or kidney stones, is increasingly common. Nutrition impacts stone formation, making nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics valuable for understanding and treating this complex disorder.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Nutritional Science
- Genetics
Background:
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) is a prevalent condition with rising incidence in industrialized nations.
- Kidney stone formation is a complex process influenced by genetic, metabolic, and nutritional factors.
- Nutrition acts as both a contributing factor and a protective element in nephrolithiasis development.
Framework:
- The International Congress "Nephrolithiasis: a systemic disorder" convened experts to discuss pathophysiology and treatment strategies.
- A dedicated session focused on the dual role of nutrition as an etiological agent and therapeutic tool for kidney stones.
- Nephrolithiasis serves as an excellent model for nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics research due to its etiopathogenesis.
Implementation:
- Nutrigenomics investigates how dietary interventions affect gene expression.
- Nutrigenetics examines the influence of genetic predispositions on individual responses to specific diets.
- These approaches offer a personalized strategy for managing nephrolithiasis.
Implications:
- Understanding the interplay between diet and genetics can lead to tailored prevention and treatment plans for kidney stones.
- Advancements in nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics hold promise for personalized nutrition in managing complex diseases like nephrolithiasis.
- This research highlights the potential for precision medicine in nephrology.
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