Phyllanthus niruri inhibits calcium oxalate endocytosis by renal tubular cells: Its role in urolithiasis

We investigated the in vitro effect of an aqueous extract of Phyllanthus ni ruri L, on a model of CaOx crystal endocytosis by Madin-Darby canine kidney cells. The extract exhibited a potent and effective non-concentration-depe ndent inhibitory effect on the CaOx crystal internalization This response w as present even at very high (pathologic) CaOx concentrations and no P, nir uri L.-induced toxic effect could be detected. Biochemical analysis of cult ure media containing P. niruri L. did not provide any clues for the elucida tion of the cellular pathways affected by this natural product. Although fu rther studies are necessary for a better understanding of the role of P, ni ruri L, in urolithiasis, our findings show that this natural product could be an attractive alternative for the treatment of urinary stones.