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Rapid Depletion of Renal Macrophages using Human CD59/Intermedilysin Cell Ablation Tool
Published on: May 9, 2025
336
Macrophage Reprogramming: Emerging Molecular Therapeutic Strategies for Nephrolithiasis
Meng Shu1,2, Yiying Jia1,2, Shuwei Zhang1,2
1Department of Urology, Changhai Hospital of Shanghai, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
Biomolecules
|August 28, 2025
Summary
Targeting macrophage polarization offers a novel approach to treating kidney stones (nephrolithiasis). Reprogramming these immune cells shows promise for preventing crystal deposition and promoting kidney repair.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Nephrology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Nephrolithiasis, often caused by calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals, is a prevalent global health issue with limited treatment options.
- Macrophage polarization plays a critical role in kidney stone formation and associated renal injury.
- Pro-inflammatory macrophages promote crystal adhesion and injury, while anti-inflammatory macrophages aid crystal clearance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in treating nephrolithiasis and renal injury by targeting macrophage polarization.
- To critically evaluate novel therapeutic strategies for macrophage reprogramming.
- To explore future directions for macrophage-targeted therapies in nephrolithiasis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pharmacological, epigenetic, and biomaterial-based therapeutic approaches.
- Analysis of emerging strategies like single-cell/spatial omics and chimeric antigen receptor macrophages (CAR-Ms).
- Evaluation of multi-omics integration for personalized treatment approaches.
Main Results:
- Macrophage polarization significantly influences nephrolithiasis pathogenesis.
- Targeting macrophage polarization presents a promising therapeutic avenue.
- Current research includes pharmacological agents, epigenetic modifications, and advanced biomaterials.
Conclusions:
- Macrophage reprogramming is a transformative frontier for nephrolithiasis management.
- Future research should focus on translating these insights into clinical applications.
- Advanced omics technologies and CAR-Ms offer potential for future therapies.
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