The formation of kidney stones is governed by the same principles as other stone systems. These ‘diagenetic phase transitions’ that create human kidney stones reflect the environment within the kidney during stone formation and could, therefore, improve understanding of urolithiasis and enable future treatment development. In this wide-ranging and unique Review, the authors explain how kidney stone formation parallels that of other stone systems such as stony corals, travertine in Roman aqueducts, stalactites and agates, and describe how the new field of GeoBioMed could be harnessed to improve patient care.
- Mayandi Sivaguru
- Jessica J. Saw
- Bruce W. Fouke