Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 29, 2025

Identification of the Source of Secreted Proteins in the Kidney by Brefeldin A Injection
Published on: November 10, 2021
Kidney-gut crosstalk in renal disease
Iara Colombo1, Florencia Aiello-Battan1, Rosario Elena1
1Human Physiology Department, Instituto Universitario del Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Introduction:
The colon has an important role in managing nitrogenous waste products, electrolytes, and mineral balance during kidney diseases. However, colonic microbiota produces uremic toxins, such as indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate, in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, which due to their proinflammatory properties contribute to CKD progression. Conversely, in acute renal injury patients, intestinal microbiota could reduce inflammation by secreting short-chain fatty acids and inducing a renal protective immune response. However, since the intestines are the most frequently affected organ in advanced sepsis, colonic microbiota can also represent a negative factor for kidney health in this scenario.
Conclusion:
In the present review, the main characteristics of kidney-gut crosstalk are described.
Related Concept Videos
Renal Corpuscle
Glomerulus: Structure and Function
The glomerulus is a tiny, intricate network of capillaries located at the beginning of the nephron. It's enveloped by the Bowman's capsule and receives its blood supply from an afferent arteriole, which divides into numerous...
Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Renal Regulation of Acid-Base Balance
In the kidneys, cells within the proximal convoluted tubules (PCT) and the collecting ducts secrete hydrogen ions (H+) into the tubular fluid. Specifically, in the PCT, Na+/H+ antiporters secrete H+ while reabsorbing Na+.
However, the intercalated cells in...
Chronic Kidney Disease I: Introduction

