NIH-funded research R01 grant

Factors from a gut bacterium that affect kidney stone formation

Official title: Oxalobacter formigenes-derived Factors Impact Hyperoxalemia, Hyperoxaluria, and Related Kidney Stones

Funded at Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10661844 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a friendly gut bacterium can help lower the amount of oxalate in urine, which can lead to kidney stones, and it’s for anyone who wants to find new ways to prevent these painful stones from forming.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project startJanuary 1, 2022
Project endDecember 31, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$349,800
NIH project number5R01DK121204-04
Project IDNIH-10661844 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who experience recurrent kidney stones, particularly those with high urinary oxalate levels.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have a history of kidney stones or those whose condition is unrelated to oxalate levels may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how factors derived from the gut bacterium Oxalobacter formigenes can influence the levels of oxalate in urine, which is a key contributor to kidney stone formation. The study aims to identify specific substances produced by this bacterium that can enhance the secretion of oxalate from the colon, thereby reducing urinary oxalate levels. By using a combination of laboratory cell cultures and animal models, the researchers will assess the effectiveness of these factors in lowering the risk of kidney stones. The ultimate goal is to develop a new therapeutic approach to prevent kidney stones, which are a common and painful condition.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce the risk of kidney stones for patients prone to this condition.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using gut bacteria to influence metabolic processes, suggesting that this approach could be viable.

Where this research is happening

  • Mayo Clinic Rochester
    Rochester, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Hassan, Hatim a — Mayo Clinic Rochester
  • Study coordinator: Hassan, Hatim a

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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  • A new flexible endoscope that quickly removes large kidney stones

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  • A new method to break large kidney stones using sound waves

    This study is testing a new, gentle treatment called burst wave lithotripsy that uses sound waves to break up larger kidney stones (10-20 mm) without surgery, aiming to make the process safer and more effective for people dealing with these stones.

    NIH research Sonomotion, INC. · Emerald Hills, United States · NIH-11066949

  • Using gold-based materials to break down kidney stones

    This study is exploring a new way to treat kidney stones using special gold materials that can help break them down safely, so patients can have a less invasive and more effective option than current treatments.

    NIH research Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · Cleveland, United States · NIH-10985150

  • A new flexible endoscope for quickly removing large kidney stones

    This study is testing a new type of flexible tool that can quickly change from a camera used to look inside the body into a suction device that helps remove large kidney stones, making it easier and faster for patients to get treatment without needing major surgery.

    NIH research Endotheia, INC. · Nashville, United States · NIH-10896987

  • Effectiveness of medications to prevent kidney stones

    This study is looking at how well medications like thiazide diuretics and allopurinol can help people who have had kidney stones avoid getting them again, focusing on real-life results that matter to you, like fewer painful episodes and trips to the emergency room.

    NIH research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · Ann Arbor, United States · NIH-10833141

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.