Gut-Kidney-Heart: A Novel Trilogy
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Updated: Jul 10, 2025

In Utero Intra-cardiac Tomato-lectin Injections on Mouse Embryos to Gauge Renal Blood Flow
Published on: February 4, 2015
Mario Caldarelli1, Laura Franza2, Pierluigi Rio1
1Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
The microbiota represents a key factor in determining health and disease. Its role in inflammation and immunological disorders is well known, but it is also involved in several complex conditions, ranging from neurological to psychiatric, from gastrointestinal to cardiovascular diseases. It has recently been hypothesized that the gut microbiota may act as an intermediary in the close interaction between kidneys and the cardiovascular system, leading to the conceptualization of the "gut-kidney-heart" axis. In this narrative review, we will discuss the impact of the gut microbiota on each system while also reviewing the available data regarding the axis itself. We will also describe the role of gut metabolites in this complex interplay, as well as potential therapeutical perspectives.
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