Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Kidney stones are hard mineral accumulations that form in the kidneys, commonly composed of calcium oxalate, with other types such as struvite associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Researchers using high-powered microscopy detected bacteria within kidney stones from patients, regardless of UTI status. The bacteria were structured in biofilms—microbial communities adhering to each other and surfaces.
These biofilms appeared to secrete molecules that promote mineral aggregation, suggesting bacteria may play an active role in stone formation beyond infection-related cases.
According to Dr. Kymora Scotland of UCLA, this evidence challenges the traditional view that kidney stones form solely via chemical and physical mechanisms, indicating bacteria may reside inside stones and contribute to their development.
Ongoing studies aim to clarify bacterial interactions with kidney stones, potentially informing new strategies for prevention and treatment.