Understanding how bacteria contribute to kidney stone formation

Elucidating the Role of Biofilm-Forming Bacteria in Nephrolithiasis

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11081818

This study is looking at how certain bacteria that form biofilms might help create kidney stones, which many people deal with, to find new ways to prevent and treat this common problem.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11081818 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of biofilm-forming bacteria in the development of kidney stones, which affect a significant portion of the population. The study aims to explore how these bacteria may promote the growth of calcium-based stones, which are the most common type. Using advanced imaging techniques and a three-dimensional kidney model, researchers will examine the interactions between bacteria and kidney stones to better understand the underlying mechanisms. This could lead to new insights into prevention and treatment strategies for kidney stone disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have a history of kidney stones, particularly those with calcium-based stones.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have kidney stones or those with stones not associated with bacterial infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment options for patients suffering from kidney stones.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of bacteria in infectious stones is known, this research is exploring a novel area regarding calcium stones, making it a potentially groundbreaking investigation.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.