The role of inflammation and ROS in CaOx kidney stones

Kidney stones are a common urological disorder, and their formation involves a complex interplay of multiple factors. Recently, numerous studies have concentrated on the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory responses in stone formation, offering new insights into their mechanisms. ROS are chemically reactive oxygen-derived molecules generated during normal aerobic metabolism through redox reactions. These molecules are crucial in regulating cellular signaling, cell cycle progression, and cell death. However, excessive production of ROS leads to oxidative stress (OS), which subsequently triggers cellular damage and inflammatory responses. Inflammation, as a protective reaction of the body to injury or infection, may paradoxically promote the formation and progression of kidney stones. This review summarizes the roles of ROS and inflammation in the formation of calcium oxalate (CaOx) kidney stones, focusing on the sources of ROS, their role in stone formation, and the activation of inflammation in relation to kidney stones. Furthermore, it discusses the interplay between OS and inflammation in facilitating stone formation. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms could provide a theoretical reference and scientific basis for the development of novel strategies to prevent and treat CaOx kidney stones.