What is nephrocalcin, and what role does it play in the formation of renal stones?
- Nephrocalcin is an anionic protein produced by the proximal renal tubule and Henle’s loop. It usually inhibits the nucleation, crystal growth, and aggregation phases of stone formation.
- However, nephrocalcin isolated from some stone formers has defective structure and function and is found in the matrix of many calcium stones. Thus, nephrocalcin may have a dual role in stone formation.
- When normal, it acts as an inhibitor of stone formation. When abnormal, it may serve as a promoter by binding calcium and form a nidus for crystallization.
