Anti urolithiatic activity of Cyperus rotundus tubers: In silico, In vitro and In vivo approaches

Abstract The present research evaluated the anti urolithic potential of Cyperus rotundus tubers extract using in silico, in vitro and in vivo techniques. In silicostudy was performed of Cyperus rotundus constituents and pathological protein oxalate oxidase (PDB Id: 2ETE). In vitrostudy, nucleation and aggregation assay involved for assessment of ethanol extract of Cyperus rotundus tuber (50-3000 µg/ml).In vivo studies involved that the Cyperus rotundusethanolic extract (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg B.wt.) wastreatedonsodium oxalate induced urolithiatic rats for seven days,evaluated kidney function by urine and serum biochemical analysis and statistical analysis performed usingGraphPad prism5 software.In silico results showedthat Cyperus rotundus constituents,Humulene epoxide, 4-Oxo-alpha-ylangene, Cubebol were exhibited better binding energyonoxalate oxidase.Ethanolic extract of Cyperus rotundustuber was exhibited nucleation, aggregation of calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals inhibition in dosedependent manner. Sodium oxalate treatment was triggered biochemical changesin the urine that have been substantially prevented by the ethanolic extract of Cyperus rotundus tuber. The current findings Cyperus rotundus anti urolithic activity due to antioxidant essential oils. The molecular docking results could be used to optimize lead and develop the appropriate urolithiasis treatment.

Effect of a low-calorie diet on 24-hour urinary parameters of obese adults with idiopathic calcium oxalate kidney stones

ABSTRACT Purpose: to evaluate the effect of low-calorie diet on 24-hour urinary metabolic parameters of obese adults with idiopathic calcium oxalate kidney stones. Materials and Methods: Adult idiopathic calcium oxalate stone formers, with body mass index (BMI) ≥30kg/m2 and a known lithogenic metabolic abnormality, were submitted to low-calorie diet for twelve weeks. After enrolment, anthropometric measures, serum exams, 24-hour urinary metabolic parameters and body impedance were collected one month prior to dietary intervention and at the end of twelve weeks. Correlations between weight loss, waist circumference loss, fat loss and variation in 24-hour urinary lithogenic parameters and calcium oxalate urinary supersaturation (CaOx SS) as per Tiselius equation were analysed. Results: From January 2017 to January 2018, 39 patients were enrolled to participate in this study. Median (range) prescribed diet was 1300 (1100-2100) Kcal/day. Mean age was 51.7±11.0 (29-68) years old and 69.2% were female. 30.8% of the participants shifted from obesity to BMI <30kg/m2 and none to BMI <25kg/m2. A significant correlation was found between baseline 24-hour urinary oxalate and weight (p=0.018) and BMI (p=0.026). No correlation was found between variation of weight, waist circumference, fat mass and 24-h urinary stone risk factors or CaOx SS. Conclusions: Short-term modest weight loss induced by twelve weeks of low-calorie diet is not associated with a decrease of 24-hour urinary lithogenic parameters in idiopathic calcium oxalate stone formers. Calcium oxalate urinary stone formation is probably multifactorial and driven by other factors than weight.

Análisis de la composición química de litiasis urinaria de 649 pacientes mediante espectroscopía infrarroja, primera experiencia nacional / Chemical composition analysis of 649 urinary stones

Background: Chemical composition analysis of urinary stones is a fundamental part of the metabolic workup of urolithiasis. Aim: To report the chemical composition of urinary stones using infrared spectroscopy. Material and Methods: The chemical composition of rinary stones recovered from 649 patients aged 1 to 97 years (68% males), were analyzed using a Perkin Elmer FTIR Spectrometer, Spectrum Two. Results: Calcium oxalate monohydrate was the most common composition found in 45% of cases, followed by mixed composition, which included three ammonium phosphate stones in 29% of cases. Pure uric acid composition was found in 16% of stones. Three cystine stones were detected. Conclusions: These findings do not differ from those found in developed countries.

Urolithiasis and sleeve gastrectomy: a prospective assessment of urinary biochemical variables / Urolitíase e gastrectomia vertical: uma avaliação prospectiva das variáveis bioquímicas urinárias

ABSTRACT Introduction: to evaluate urinary biochemical alterations related to urolithogenesis processes after sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Materials and methods : prospective study with 32 individuals without previous diagnosis of urolithiasis who underwent SG. A 24-h urine test was collected seven days prior to surgery and at 6-month follow-up. The studied variables were urine volume, urinary pH, oxalate, calcium, citrate, and magnesium and calcium oxalate super saturation (CaOx SS). Results: patients were mainly women (81.2%), with mean age of 40.6 years. Mean pre- and postoperative BMI were 47.1 ± 8.3 Kg/m2 and 35.5 ± 6.1 Kg/m2, respectively (p<0.001). Urine volume was significantly lower at the postoperative evaluation in absolute values (2,242.50 ± 798.26 mL x 1,240.94 ± 352.39 mL, p<0.001) and adjusted to body weight (18.58 ± 6.92 mL/kg x 13.92 ± 4.65 mL/kg, p<0.001). CaOx SS increased significantly after SG (0.11 ± 0.10 x 0.24 ± 0.18, p<0.001). Moreover, uric acid levels were significantly lower at the postoperative evaluation (482.34 ± 195.80 mg x 434.75 ± 158.38 mg, p=0.027). Urinary pH, oxalate, calcium, citrate, and magnesium did not present significant variations between the pre- and postoperative periods. Conclusion: SG may lead to important alterations in the urinary profile. However, it occurs in a much milder way than that of RYGB.

RESUMO Introdução: avaliar as alterações bioquímicas urinárias relacionadas aos processos de litíase urinária após gastrectomia vertical (GV). Método: estudo prospectivo, com 32 indivíduos submetidos a GV, sem diagnóstico prévio de urolitíase. Foi coletada urina de 24 horas, sete dias antes da operação e no retorno de 6 meses. As variáveis estudadas foram volume de urina, pH urinário, oxalato, cálcio, citrato e super saturação de oxalato e cálcio (SS CaOx). Resultados: os pacientes foram em sua maioria mulheres (81,2%), com idade média de 40,6 anos. O IMC médio pré e pós-operatório foi 47,1 ± 8,3 Kg/m2 e 35,5 ± 6,1 Kg/m2, respectivamente (p<0,001). O volume de urina foi significativamente baixo na avaliação pós-operatória em valores absolutos (2.242,50 ± 798,26 mL versus 1.240,94 ± 352,39 mL, p<0,001) e ajustado ao peso corporal (18,58 ± 6,92 mL/kg versus 13,92 ± 4,65 mL/kg, p<0,001). A SS CaOx aumentou significativamente após a GV (0,11 ± 0,10 versus 0,24 ± 0,18, p<0,001). Além disso, os níveis de ácido úrico apresentaram-se significativamente baixos na avaliação pós-operatória (482,34 ± 195,80 mg versus 434,75 ± 158,38 mg, p=0,027). PH urinário, oxalato, cálcio, citrato e magnésio não apresentaram variações significativas entre os períodos pré e pós-operatório. Conclusão: a GV pode levar a alterações importantes no perfil urinário. Entretanto, essas ocorrem de forma muito mais leve que na derivação gástrica em Y de Roux.

Influence of socioeconomic disparities, temperature and humidity in kidney stone composition / Influência de disparidades socioeconômicas, temperatura e umidade na composição de cálculos renais

Abstract Introduction: Large variations in demographic, economic and environmental factors might influence the worldwide distribution of urolithiasis, but scarce data are available concerning their associations with stone composition. We aimed to evaluate the frequency and composition of kidney stones and their associations with temperature, humidity, and human development index (HDI). Materials and Methods: A total of 1,158 stones from distinct patients (47±14 years old, male/female 2:1) were included. The mean annual temperature and relative humidity of each town were considered separately. Results: Calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) was disclosed in 38.8% of patients, calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD) in 22.1%, mixed COD/apatite in 9.4%, pure apatite in 1.9%, brushite in 1.8%, struvite in 8.3%, pure uric acid in 11.1%, mixed uric acid/COM in 5.6%, and cystine/rare types in 0.8%. Mean HDI of all pooled cities was 0.780±0.03. However, people living in HDI<0.800 regions had twice the odds of having a struvite stone versus those living in HDI>0.800 (OR=2.14, 95% CI 1.11-4.11). Furthermore, a progressive increase in the struvite stones frequency from 4.5 to 22.8% was detected from HDI>0.800 through HDI<0.700. No significant difference for other stone types was disclosed. Separate logistic regression models assessed the association of each stone composition with gender, temperature, humidity and HDI as covariates. Conclusion: Patients living in low HDI areas are more prone to develop struvite stones, possibly due to lower access to healthcare. Temperature and humidity did not represent a specific risk factor for any stone type in the present sample.

Resumo Introdução: Grandes variações em fatores demográficos, econômicos e ambientais podem influenciar a distribuição mundial da urolitíase, mas há muito pouco dado disponível sobre suas associações com a composição do cálculo renal. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar a frequência e composição dos cálculos renais e suas associações com temperatura, umidade e índice de desenvolvimento humano (IDH). Materiais e Métodos: Foram incluídos 1.158 cálculos de pacientes distintos (47 ± 14 anos, masculino / feminino 2:1). A temperatura média anual e a umidade relativa de cada cidade foram consideradas separadamente. Resultados: O oxalato de cálcio monohidratado (COM) foi detectado em 38,8% dos pacientes; oxalato de cálcio dihidratado (COD) em 22,1%; mistos de COD/apatita em 9,4%; apatita pura em 1,9%; brushita em 1,8%; estruvita em 8,3%, ácido úrico puro em 11,1%; mistos de ácido úrico /COM em 5,6% e cistina/tipos raros em 0,8%. O IDH médio de todas as cidades em conjunto foi de 0,780 ± 0,03. No entanto, indivíduos que vivem em regiões com IDH <0,800 apresentaram duas vezes a razão de chances de ter cálculo de estruvita do que aqueles que vivem em cidades com IDH > 0,800 (OR = 2,14; IC 95% 1,11-4,11). Além disso, um aumento progressivo na frequência de cálculos de estruvita de 4,5 para 22,8% foi detectado em IDH> 0,800 até IDH <0,700. Não foi observada nenhuma diferença significante para outros tipos de cálculos. Modelos separados de regressão logística foram utilizados para avaliar a associação de cada tipo de cálculo com gênero, temperatura, umidade e IDH como covariáveis. Conclusão: Pacientes que vivem em áreas com baixo IDH são mais propensos a desenvolverem cálculos de estruvita, possivelmente devido ao menor acesso à assistência médica. A temperatura e a umidade não representaram um fator de risco específico para qualquer tipo de cálculo na presente amostra.

Upper urinary tract stone compositions: the role of age and gender

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the compositions of upper urinary tract stones and investigate their distributions in different gender and age groups. Materials and Methods: Patients diagnosed with upper urinary tract stone disease between December 2014 and March 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient's age, gender, BMI, comorbidities, stone event characteristics, and compositions were collected, and proportions of stone components in different gender and age groups were analyzed. Results: A total of 1532 stone analyses were performed (992 from males and 540 from females). The mean age was younger in males (p <0.001). Males included more cases with larger BMI, hyperuricemia, and obesity, while females had more urinary tract infections. Multiple components were present in 61.8% of stones. Calcium oxalate (CaOx) (67.0%) was the most common component, followed by uric acid (UA) (11.8%), infection stone (11.4%), calcium phosphate (CaP) (8.0%), cystine (1.1%), brushite (0.4%), and 2, 8-dihydroxyadenine (0.2%). Men contributed with more CaOx stones than women at age 30-49 years (all p <0.01) and more UA stones at 30-59 years (all p <0.05). Women contributed with more infection stones than men in age groups 30-49 and 60-69 years (all p <0.05), and more CaP stones at 30-49 years. The prevalence peak was 50-59 years in men and 60-69 years in women. Both genders had the lowest prevalence in adolescence. Prevalence of UA stones increased while that of infection stones decreased with aging in both genders. Conclusions: Age and sex had a strong association with distribution of stone compositions in this Chinese cohort.

Review of post bariatric surgery effects on common genitourinary physiology

ABSTRACT Background: Obesity is a worldwide challenging health problem. Weight loss through medical management of obesity has not always been successful, thus, giving rise to the need for surgical intervention. Bariatric surgery has been shown to be helpful for morbidly obese patients. However, studies have also shown the effect of surgery on stone formation, fertility and erectile function. This review summarizes the main findings of several studies that analyze stone formation and fertility in men as well as erectile function post bariatric surgery. The underlying pathophysiologic alterations post bariatric surgery include increased absorption of oxalate leading to hyperoxaluria, hypocitraturia and increased urinary calcium oxalate supersaturation. Contradicting data exist on the effect of bariatric surgery on fertility and erectile function. Further studies are needed to analyze the mechanisms.

Long non-coding RNA CHCHD4P4 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and inhibits cell proliferation in calcium oxalate-induced kidney damage

Kidney stone disease is a major cause of chronic renal insufficiency. The role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in calcium oxalate-induced kidney damage is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to explore the roles of lncRNAs in glyoxylate-exposed and healthy mouse kidneys using microarray technology and bioinformatics analyses. A total 376 mouse lncRNAs were differentially expressed between the two groups. Using BLAST, 15 lncRNA homologs, including AU015836 and CHCHD4P4, were identified in mice and humans. The AU015836 expression in mice exposed to glyoxylate and the CHCHD4P4 expression in human proximal tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells exposed to calcium oxalate monohydrate were analyzed, and both lncRNAs were found to be upregulated in response to calcium oxalate. To further evaluate the effects of CHCHD4P4 on the cell behavior, we constructed stable CHCHD4P4-overexpressing and CHCHD4P4-knockdown HK-2 cells. The results showed that CHCHD4P4 inhibited cell proliferation and promoted the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in kidney damage and fibrosis caused by calcium oxalate crystallization and deposition. The silencing of CHCHD4P4 reduced the kidney damage and fibrosis and may thus be a potential molecular target for the treatment of kidney stones.

Valores de referencia de oxalato, calcio, citrato, ácido úrico, fósforo, magnesio, sulfato y sodio urinarios en alumnos de la carrera de bioquímica de la Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Argentina / Reference values for urinary oxalate, calcium, citrate, uric acid, phosphate, magnesium, sulphate and sodium in biochemistry students at Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Argentina

INTRODUCCIÓN: La urolitiasis (UL) es una alteración frecuente, cuya incidencia ha aumentado en el último cuarto del siglo XX. Para su diagnóstico se realizan estudios metabólicos para lo cual es necesario contar con valores de referencia (VR) establecidos para la población en cuestión. OBJETIVO: El objetivo del trabajo fue determinar VR de calcio, oxalato, citrato, úrico, fósforo, magnesio, sulfato y sodio en orina de 24 horas de alumnos de la Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas de la Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina. Con los VR hallados se determinó la frecuencia de alteraciones y se la comparó con datos bibliográficos. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se utilizó la guía NCCLSC28-A3, 2008. La muestra de referencia fue de 69 alumnos. Se utilizaron métodos enzimáticos-colorimétricos, espectrofotómetro Metrolab 1600 plus, electrodos ion selectivo DIESTRO. RESULTADOS: Los VR hallados (IC 95%) fueron para el oxalato: 1,96-45,08; calcio: 20,65-250,74; citrato: 112,78-666,01; ácido úrico 58,73-782,17; fósforo 238,37-1051,44; magnesio 28,7-146,67 todos en mg/24h; sulfato 3,15-25,18 mmol/24h y sodio 42,81-285,3 mEq/24h. Se encontró un 3% hiperoxaluria, 12% hipercalciuria, 3% hipocitraturia y 6% hiperuricosuria, 6% hiperfosfaturia, 6% hipomagnesuria, 7% hipernatriuria, 0% hipersulfaturia. Los VR comparados mostraron coincidencias para algunos analitos y para otros amplias diferencias. CONCLUSIONES: El diagnóstico de la alteración metabólica para el estudio de UL varía según el valor de referencia utilizado. Adoptar valores establecidos para otras poblaciones, incluidos los de los fabricantes de los kits comerciales, conducen a un diagnóstico que puede no ser acorde a la situación clínica del paciente

INTRODUCTION: Urolithiasis (UL) is a common disease whose incidence increased in the last quarter of the twentieth century. Metabolic evaluation is necessary for diagnosis, which requires the establishment of reference values (RV) for the population in question. OBJECTIVE: To determine the RV for calcium, oxalate, citrate, uric acid, phosphate, magnesium, sulphate and sodium in 24-hour urine belonging to students from the School of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences at Universidad Nacional del Litoral, province of Santa Fe, Argentina. Once RV were established, a frequency of alterations was determined and then compared with literature data. METHODS: The NCCLSC28-A3 guideline (2008) was used. The study group included 69 students. The enzymatic colorimetric method, a Metrolab 1600 plus spectrophotometer and a DIESTRO ion-selective electrode were also employed. Results: The RV found (95 % CI) were the following: oxalate, 1.96-45.08; calcium, 20.65-250.74; citrate, 112.78-666.01; uric acid, 58.73-782.17; phosphate, 238.37-1051.44; magnesium, 28.7-146.67, all these values expressed as mg/24h; sulphate, 3.15-25.18 mmol/24h, and sodium, 42.81-285.3 mEq/24h. These findings emerged as well: hyperoxaluria, 3%; hypercalciuria 12%; hypocitraturia, 3%; hyperuricosuria, 6%; hyperphosphaturia, 6%; hypomagnesuria, 6%; hypernatriuria, 7%, and hypersulphaturia, 0%. When RV were compared, some analyte levels were similar and others showed a considerable difference. CONCLUSIONS: The diagnosis of UL through the study of metabolic changes is different according to the reference value used. Applying reference values established for other populations, including those of commercial kits manufacturers, may lead to a diagnosis which does not match the clinical condition of the patient

A retirada dos urólitos de oxalato de cálcio e desobstrução da uretra através da realização da técnica cirúrgica uretrostomia em cães: relato de caso / Removal of calcium oxalate uroliths and urethral clearing through urethrostomy in dogs: case report / La retirada de urólitos de oxalato de calcio y desobstrucción de la uretra a través de realización de la técnica quirúrgica urestrostomía en perros: relato de caso

A uretra do macho é uma continuação do sistema de ductos, originada de um óstio interno no colo da bexiga urinária e estendida até o orifício peniano uretral externo na extremidade livre do pênis. Relata-se um caso de um canino, macho, SRD, de três anos, pesando 12 kg. Foi atendido no Hospital Veterinário Universitário "Jeremias Pereira da Silva" - HVU/UFPI, na área de Clínica Médica e Cirúrgica de cães e gatos. O mesmo apresentava manifestações clínicas como: dificuldade de locomoção, disúria, inapetência, hematúria, anúria, agressividade, dor abdominal, apatia e emagrecimento progressivo. A conduta clínica adotada diante do caso, após o resultado dos exames complementares que confirmaram o diagnostico inicial, indicativo de obstrução uretral total por urólitos de oxalato de cálcio, devido ao insucesso das tentativas clínicas de desobstrução foi optar pela técnica cirúrgica uretrostomia. Decorrido dez dias da cirurgia, o animal retornou para retirada dos pontos, apresentando-se em bom estado, alimentando-se bem, fluxo urinário constante (sem sangue), e andando normalmente. A urolitíase deve ser diagnosticada e tratada o mais previamente possível, uma vez que a doença se complica no avançar dos sinais clínicos, podendo ocasionar casos mais complexos, como obstruções urinárias severas e até morte do animal.(AU)

The male urethra is a continuation of the duct system originated from an internal ostium inside the bladder and extends to the external urethral penile hole at the free end of the penis. This is a case study of a 3-year old male mongrel dog weighing 12 kg. The dog was attended at the University Veterinary Hospital "Jeremias Pereira da Silva" ­ HVU/UFPI in the Clinical and Surgical Practice of dogs and cats. It presented clinical manifestations such as difficulty in walking, dysuria, loss of appetite, hematuria, anuria, aggressiveness, abdominal pain, lethargy and progressive weight loss. An urethrostomy was the clinical approach adopted for the case, after the laboratory tests confirmed the initial diagnosis of total urethral obstruction by calcium oxalate uroliths due to the failure of clinical unblocking attempts. Ten days after the surgery, the animal returned to the clinic to remove the stitches, and presented a good condition, feeding well, with a constant urine flow (no blood), and walking normally. Urolithiasis must be diagnosed and treated as early as possible, since the disease complicates itself with the worsening of the clinical signs, which may result in more complex cases, such as severe urinary obstruction and even the death of the animal.(AU)

La uretra del macho es una continuación del sistema de ductos, originada de un ostium interno en el cuello de la vejiga urinaria y se extiende hasta el orificio uretral externo en la extremidad libre del pene. Presentamos un caso de un canino, macho, SRD, de tres años, con un peso de 12 kg. Fue atendido en el Hospital Veterinario de la Universidad "Jeremías Pereira da Silva" - HVU/UFPI, en el campo de Clínica Médica y Quirúrgica de perros y gatos. Lo mismo presentaba manifestaciones clínicas como: dificultad para caminar, disuria, pérdida de apetito, hematuria, anuria, agresividad, dolor abdominal, letargo y pérdida progresiva de peso. La conducta clínica adoptada delante el caso, tras el resultado de los exámenes complementarios que confirmaron el diagnóstico inicial, indicativo de obstrucción uretral total de cálculos de oxalato de calcio, debido al fracaso de las tentativas clínicas de desbloqueo cupo optar por uretrostomía, técnica quirúrgica. Después de diez días de la cirugía el animal volvió para retirada de los puntos de sutura, presentándose en buen estado, alimentándose bien, flujo de orina constante (sin sangre), y caminando normalmente. La urolitiasis debe ser diagnosticada y tratada cuanto antes posible, ya que la enfermedad se complica con el avance de los signos clínicos, pudiendo causar casos más complejos, como obstrucciones urinarias severas e incluso la muerte del animal.(AU)

Degradación de oxalato por bacterias oxalotróficas asociadas a plantas del género Oxalis sp en regiones Andinas del departamento de Nariño, Colombia / Oxalate degradation by oxalotrophic bacteria associated with plants of the genus Oxalis sp in the Andean region of the department of Nariño, Colombia

Introducción: El ácido oxálico (H2C2O4) y las sales de oxalato son sustancias altamente oxidadas y consideradas tóxicas para algunos sistemas biológicos, incluido el humano, no obstante, pueden ser utilizadas como fuente de carbono y energía por algunas comunidades bacterianas, denominadas oxalotróficas, las cuales por su capacidad metabólica forman parte de la ruta biogeoquímica oxalato-carbonato (OCP, oxalate-carbonate pathway). Objetivo: Aislar y caracterizar bacterias oxalotróficas a partir de plantas del género Oxalis sp., de zonas alto-andina de Nariño- Colombia. Materiales y métodos: Se recolectaron muestras de suelo rizosférico de plantas oxalogénicas que fueron analizadas con parámetros fisicoquímicos y se utilizó un medio selectivo Schlegel para el aislamiento de bacterias oxalotróficas. Resultados: Las bacterias aisladas en medio selectivo Schlegel fueron caracterizadas bioquímicamente como: (Serratia fonticola, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus vallismortis y Bacillus cereus). Estas especies fueron capaces de degradar oxalato e incrementar el pH producto de la degradación. Conclusión: Este tipo de bacterias pueden ser estudiadas en trabajos complementarios para evaluar su potencial como biofertilizantes y/o alternativas de bioremediación en suelos ácidos. El estudio a pesar de ser indicativo a nivel biológico, puede en un futuro y con base en mayores soportes en investigación, tornarse en una promisoria aplicación para reducir el oxalato de calcio en los alimentos de consumo diario que presentan un renglón de importancia agrícola en la región, potencialmente dañinos para la función renal.

Introduction: Oxalic acid (H2C2O4) and oxalate salts are highly oxidized substances, which are considered as toxic for some biological systems, including the human being; however, they can be used as a source of carbon and energy for some bacterial communities called oxalotrophic which are part of the so called oxalate-carbonate geochemistry pathway (OCP) due to its metabolic capacity. Objective: The aim of this research was to isolate and characterize oxalotrophic bacteria from plants of the genus Oxalis sp. in the high-andean zone of the department of Nariño, Colombia. Materials and methods: Samples of rhizosphere soil from oxalogenic plants were analyzed with physicochemical parameters and a Schlegel selective medium was used to isolate oxalotrophic bacteria. Results: The isolated bacteria through Schlegel selective medium were identified biochemically as: (Serratia fonticola, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus vallismortis and Bacillus cereus). The identified species play an important role in the rhizosphere soil, principally for the capacity to increase the pH during oxalate consumption. Conclusion: This type of bacteria can be studied in additional studies to evaluate their potential as bio-fertilizers and/or bioremediation alternatives in acid soils. Despite that the study is indicative at a biological level, it can become a promising application, in the future and with greater support in research, to reduce the calcium oxalate in food of daily consumption which represent an agricultural important line in the region and are potentially harmful to kidney finction.

Effect of mitochondrial potassium channel on the renal protection mediated by sodium thiosulfate against ethylene glycol induced nephrolithiasis in rat model

Purpose: Sodium thiosulfate (STS) is clinically reported to be a promising drug in preventing nephrolithiasis. However, its mechanism of action remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the role of mitochondrial KATP channel in the renal protection mediated by STS. Materials and Methods: Nephrolithiasis was induced in Wistar rats by administrating 0.4% ethylene glycol (EG) along with 1% ammonium chloride for one week in drinking water followed by only 0.75% EG for two weeks. Treatment groups received STS, mitochondrial KATP channel opener and closer exclusively or in combination with STS for two weeks. Results: Animals treated with STS showed normal renal tissue architecture, supported by near normal serum creatinine, urea and ALP activity. Diazoxide (mitochondria KATP channel opening) treatment to the animal also showed normal renal tissue histology and improved serum chemistry. However, an opposite result was shown by glibenclamide (mitochondria KATP channel closer) treated rats. STS administered along with diazoxide negated the renal protection rendered by diazoxide alone, while it imparted protection to the glibenclamide treated rats, formulating a mitochondria modulated STS action. Conclusion: The present study confirmed that STS render renal protection not only through chelation and antioxidant effect but also by modulating the mitochondrial KATP channel for preventing urolithiasis.

In vitro studies reveal antiurolithic effect of Terminalia arjuna using quantitative morphological information from computerized microscopy

ABSTRACT Purpose: For most cases, urolithiasis is a condition where excessive oxalate is present in the urine. Many reports have documented free radical generation followed by hyperoxaluria as a consequence of which calcium oxalate (CaOx) deposition occurs in the kidney tissue. The present study is aimed to exam the antilithiatic potency of the aqueous extract (AE) of Terminalia arjuna (T. arjuna). Materials and Methods: The antilithiatic activity of Terminalia arjuna was investigated in vitro nucleation, aggregation and growth of the CaOx crystals as well as the morphology of CaOx crystals using the inbuilt software ‘Image-Pro Plus 7.0’ of Olympus upright microscope (BX53). Antioxidant activity of AE of Terminalia arjuna bark was also determined in vitro. Results: Terminalia arjuna extract exhibited a concentration dependent inhibition of nucleation and aggregation of CaOx crystals. The AE of Terminalia arjuna bark also inhibited the growth of CaOx crystals. At the same time, the AE also modified the morphology of CaOx crystals from hexagonal to spherical shape with increasing concentrations of AE and reduced the dimensions such as area, perimeter, length and width of CaOx crystals in a dose dependent manner. Also, the Terminalia arjuna AE scavenged the DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radicals with an IC50 at 13.1µg/mL. Conclusions: The study suggests that Terminalia arjuna bark has the potential to scavenge DPPH radicals and inhibit CaOx crystallization in vitro. In the light of these studies, Terminalia arjuna can be regarded as a promising candidate from natural plant sources of antilithiatic and antioxidant activity with high value.

Studying inhibition of calcium oxalate stone formation: an in vitro approach for screening hydrogen sulfide and its metabolites

Calcium oxalate urolithiasis is one of the most common urinary tract diseases and is of high prevalence. The present study proposes to evaluate the antilithiatic property of hydrogen sulfide and its metabolites like thiosulfate & sulfate in an in vitro model.

Antilithiatic Activity of phlorotannin rich extract of Sarghassum Wightii on Calcium Oxalate Urolithiais ­ In Vitro and In VivoEvaluation

Urolithiasis is a common urological disorder responsible for serious human affliction and cost to the society with a high recurrence rate. The aim of the present study was to systematically evaluate the phlorotannin rich extract of Sargassum wightii using suitable in vitro and in vivo models to provide scientific evidence for its antilithiatic activity.

Estudo farmacobotânico de partes aéreas vegetativas de aroeira-vermelha (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi, Anacardiaceae) / Pharmacobotanical study of the aerial parts of Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi)

Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi (Anacardiaceae), conhecida como aroeira-vermelha é uma espécie nativa do Brasil, perenifólia e pioneira, sendo muito utilizada para combater diversas doenças, pois apresenta, entre outras, propriedades anti-inflamatórias e cicatrizantes. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi realizar um estudo morfoanatômico do caule e da folha de S. terebinthifolius, descrevendo a organização dos tecidos e suas possíveis variações. As análises macro e microscópicas foram realizadas com material selecionado de partes vegetativas de um espécime localizado na cidade de Campina Grande - PB. A aroeira-vermelha é um vegetal arbóreo e dióico, que apresenta caule cilíndrico e simpodial, com casca rugosa e estriada. A folha é perene, alterna, coriácea e composta. As análises microscópicas evidenciaram epiderme caulinar e foliar uniestratificadas, exceto na face adaxial da folha, que é bisseriada. No caule e no pecíolo são visualizados muitos tricomas tectores unicelulares, curtos, cônicos e agudos no ápice. Encontram-se canais secretores arredondados e bem desenvolvidos na região do floema em todos os órgãos estudados, bem como cutícula revestindo as células epidérmicas e grande quantidade de drusas de oxalato de cálcio. Os feixes vasculares são circundados por células esclerenquimáticas e apresentam o floema seguido por xilema helicoidal bem desenvolvido. No caule, pecíolo e nervura central da folha, o xilema é interno e o floema, externo. A aroeira-vermelha apresenta alguns aspectos estruturais característicos de plantas xerófilas, como camada múltipla da epiderme da face adaxial foliar, que protegem o mesofilo de excessiva dessecação; presença de cutícula espessa e grande quantidade de pêlos e de estômatos; além de sistema vascular bem desenvolvido, com abundância de esclerênquima, dando sustentação ao feixe.

Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi (Anacardiaceae), popularly known as Brazilian pepper, is an evergreen, pioneer and indigenous plant from Brazil, and it is used to combat various diseases, as it presents anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. The aim of this research was to study the morpho-anatomical features of the stem and leaf of S. terebinthifolius, describing the organization of the tissues and their variations. The macroscopic and microscopic analyses were performed with material selected from vegetative parts of a specimen collected in the city of Campina Grande - state of Paraíba, Brazil. The Brazilian pepper is a dioecious plant with cylindrical and sympodial stem and rough and striated bark. The leaves are evergreen, alternate, leathery and compound. The microscopic analysis showed uniseriate epidermis in the stem and leaf, except in the adaxial leaf, which is biseriate. In the stem and petiole, many unicellular, short, conical tector trichomes with acute apex are observed. In the phloem of all studied organs, we found rounded and well-developed secretory ducts, as well as cuticle covering the epidermal cells and a large amount of calcium oxalate druses. The vascular bundles are surrounded by sclerenchyma cells and present phloem followed by well-developed spiral xylem. In the stem, petiole and leaf's central vein, the xylem is internal and the phloem is external. The Brazilian pepper has some structural features characteristic of xerophilous plants, such as multiple layers of the epidermis in adaxial leaf, which protects the mesophyll from excessive drying, thick cuticle and a large quantity of hairs and stomata, well-developed vascular system with plenty of sclerenchyma, giving support to the bundle.

Citrato y litiasis renal / Citrate and renal stones

El citrato es un potente inhibidor de la cristalización de sales de calcio. La hipocitraturia es una alteración bioquímica frecuente en la formación de cálculos de calcio en adultos y especialmente en niños. El pH ácido (sistémico, tubular e intracelular) es el principal determinante de la excreción de citrato en la orina. Si bien la mayoría de los pacientes con litiasis renal presentan hipocitraturia idiopática, hay un número de causas para esta anormalidad que incluyen acidosis tubular renal distal, hipokalemia, dietas ricas en proteínas de origen animal y/o dietas bajas en álcalis y ciertas drogas, como la acetazolamida, topiramato, IECA y tiazidas. Las modificaciones dietéticas que benefician a estos pacientes incluyen: alta ingesta de líquidos y frutas, especialmente cítricos, restricción de sodio y proteínas, con consumo normal de calcio. El tratamiento con citrato de potasio es efectivo en pacientes con hipocitraturia primaria o secundaria y en aquellos desordenes en la acidificación, que provocan un pH urinario persistentemente ácido. Los efectos adversos son bajos y están referidos al tracto gastrointestinal. Si bien hay diferentes preparaciones de citrato (citrato de potasio, citrato de sodio, citrato de potasio-magnesio) en nuestro país solo está disponible el citrato de potasio en polvo que es muy útil para corregir la hipocitraturia y el pH urinario bajo, y reducir marcadamente la recurrencia de la litiasis renal.

Citrate is a powerful inhibitor of the crystallization of calcium salts. Hypocitraturia is a biochemical common alteration in calcium stone formation in adults and especially in children. The acid pH (systemic, tubular and intracellular) is the main determinant of citrate excretion in the urine. While the etiology of hypocitraturia is idiopathic in most patients with kidney stones, there are a number of causes for this abnormality including distal renal tubular acidosis, hypokalemia, diets rich in animal protein and / or diets low in alkali and certain drugs, such as acetazolamide, topiramate, ACE inhibitors and thiazides. Dietary modifications that benefit these patients include high intake of fluids and fruits, especially citrus, sodium and protein restriction, with normal calcium intake. Treatment with potassium citrate is effective in patients with primary or secondary hypocitraturia and acidification disorders, which cause unduly acidic urine pH persistently. Adverse effects are low and are referred to the gastrointestinal tract. While there are various preparations of citrate (potassium citrate, sodium citrate, potassium citrate, magnesium) in our country is available only potassium citrate powder that is useful to correct both the hypocitraturia and the low urinary pH and reduce markedly the recurrence of kidney stones.

2D map of proteins from human renal stone matrix and evaluation of their effect on oxalate induced renal tubular epithelial cell injury

Purpose Proteins constitute a major portion of the organic matrix of human calcium oxalate (CaOx) renal stones and the matrix is considered to be important in stone formation and growth. The present study evaluates the effect of these proteins on oxalate injured renal epithelial cells accompanied by a 2D map of these proteins. Materials and Methods Proteins were isolated from the matrix of kidney stones containing CaOx as the major constituent using EGTA as a demineralizing agent. The effect of more than 3kDa proteins from matrix of human renal (calcium oxalate) CaOx stones was investigated on oxalate induced cell injury of MDCK renal tubular epithelial cells. A 2D map of >3kDa proteins was also generated followed by protein identification using MALDI-TOF MS. Results The >3kDa proteins enhanced the injury caused by oxalate on MDCK cells. Also, the 2D map of proteins having MW more than 3kDa suggested the abundance of proteins in the matrix of renal stone. Conclusion Studies indicate that the mixture of >3kDa proteins in the matrix of human renal stones acts as promoter of calcium oxalate crystal nucleation and growth as it augments the renal epithelial cell injury induced by oxalate. The effect of promoters masks the inhibitors in the protein mixture thereby leading to enhanced renal cell injury. 2D map throws light on the nature of proteins present in the kidney stones. .