The Gut Microbiome in Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

Alterations in composition and function of the gut microbiome, associated with the disruption of gut barrier function, have been found in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Many factors can cause the disruption of gut ecosystem in CKD, and this disturbed gut ecosystem may be a source of inflammation, acting as a catalyzer for the typical metabolic disorders and comorbidities present in the CKD patients. Thus the gut has been considered a new therapeutic target for CKD patients. Nevertheless, there is still no consensus on the type, duration, and CKD stage to introduce the use of prebiotics, probiotics, or synbiotics in CKD patients. In this chapter we will be considering the gut microbiota and the practical applications of gut microbiota treatment in CKD patients based on recent studies.