The role of uric acid in the development of infl ammation in kidney disease

Abstract

Asymptomatic hyperuricemia is frequently seen in patients with kidney disease. A significant number of epidemiological studies suggest that elevated uric acid levels play a causal role in the development and progression of kidney disease. But whether hyperuricemia is simply the result of reduced renal excretion of uric acid or contributes to the progression of renal disease remains controversial. Over the past two decades, numerous experimental studies have expanded the knowledge of the biological effects of uric acid beyond its role in the development of gout. In particular, uric acid induces activation of the immune system and affects not only renal tissue cells but also endothelial cells.  All this has led to the presentation of uric acid as a potential and modifying risk factor for kidney disease. This review examines the effects of uric acid on the immune system and further on renal tissue during inflammation.