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Updated: Jun 16, 2025

Estimation of Urinary Nanocrystals in Humans using Calcium Fluorophore Labeling and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis
Published on: February 9, 2021
Targeting protein receptors and enzymes for precision management of urolithiasis: A comprehensive review
Ziyaul Haque1, Mohamad Taleuzzaman2, Ruqaiya Jamal2
1Anjumane-I-Islam Kalsekar Technical Campus (AIKTC), School of Pharmacy, Plot No: 2&3, Sector:16, Near Thana Naka, Khandagaon, New Panvel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 410206, India; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Maulana Azad University, Village Bujhawar, Tehsil Luni, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342802, India.
Abstract:
Urolithiasis, characterized by the formation of solid crystalline structures within the urinary tract, presents a significant global health burden with high recurrence rates and limited treatment efficacy. Recent research has identified various protein receptors and enzymes implicated in the pathogenesis of urolithiasis, offering potential targets for therapeutic intervention. Protein receptors such as the calcium-sensing receptor and vasopressin V2 receptor play crucial roles in regulating urinary calcium excretion and water reabsorption, respectively, influencing stone formation. Additionally, modulation of receptors like the angiotensin II receptor and aldosterone receptor can impact renal function and electrolyte balance, contributing to stone prevention. Furthermore, enzymes such as urease inhibitors and xanthine oxidase inhibitors offer targeted approaches to prevent the formation of specific stone types. This review discusses the potential of targeting these receptors and enzymes for the treatment of urolithiasis, exploring associated drugs and their mechanisms of action. Despite promising avenues for personalized and precision medicine approaches, challenges such as the need for robust clinical evidence and ensuring cost-effectiveness must be addressed for the translation of these interventions into clinical practice. By overcoming these challenges, receptor-targeted therapies and enzyme inhibitors hold promise for revolutionizing the management of urolithiasis and reducing its global burden.
Insights
Targeting specific protein receptors and enzymes shows promise for treating urolithiasis (kidney stones). These novel therapies aim to reduce stone formation and recurrence, offering new hope for patients.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Urolithiasis (kidney stones) is a prevalent condition with high recurrence and limited effective treatments.
- Protein receptors and enzymes are increasingly recognized as key players in kidney stone development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the therapeutic potential of targeting specific protein receptors and enzymes in urolithiasis management.
- To explore the mechanisms of action of drugs targeting these pathways.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent research on urolithiasis pathogenesis.
- Analysis of the roles of specific receptors (e.g., calcium-sensing, vasopressin V2) and enzymes (e.g., urease, xanthine oxidase).
- Discussion of potential therapeutic targets and associated drugs.
Main Results:
- Identified key protein receptors (calcium-sensing, vasopressin V2, angiotensin II, aldosterone) and enzymes (urease, xanthine oxidase) involved in stone formation.
- Highlighted the potential of receptor-targeted therapies and enzyme inhibitors for urolithiasis treatment.
- Discussed the mechanisms of action for relevant drugs.
Conclusions:
- Targeting specific receptors and enzymes offers a promising strategy for personalized urolithiasis treatment.
- Further clinical evidence and cost-effectiveness studies are needed for successful translation into practice.
- These approaches could revolutionize urolithiasis management and reduce its global impact.
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