Anti-inflammatory Proteins in Kidney Stone Matrix

Kidney stone disease (nephrolithiasis) is an ancient and globally common health problem. Identification of novel therapeutic molecules for better outcome and successful prevention of the occurrence of stones are crucially essential. The pathogenesis of calcium oxalate stone formation is a multistep process and in core includes nucleation, crystal growth, crystal aggregation, and crystal retention. Promoters of stone formation and inhibitors may exist in the same milieu, trying to win over each other. Proteins have the lion’s share in the renal stone genesis and considered to have potential role in nephrolithiasis. Many proteins are known to inhibit stone formation, by adsorbing to the surface of the crystal, thereby inhibiting crystal growth and aggregation. However, the stimuli for these events are not completely known. Recent investigations have identified low molecular weight anti-inflammatory proteins including myeloperoxidase, defensin, and calgranulin. However, the presence of a well-formed stone itself initiates an inflammatory response, leading to release of these proteins and further amplification of stone formation process. This chapter provides a brief overview of anti-inflammatory proteins and their role in nephrolithiasis.