Kidney Disease and the Microbiome: Importance of the Gut-Kidney Axis

In this program, participants will learn about important interactions between the kidneys and gut microbiome. Patients with chronic kidney disease often have a significant dysbiosis; a change in the microbial diversity. The role of microbiome produced uremic toxins and their effects on the body will be reviewed. The relationship between CKD and the gut microbiome is complex and bidirectional, with uremia affecting the quantity and quality of the microbiota and gut-derived metabolites/toxins affecting progression of CKD. Using specific dietary interventions as a means to target the microbiome and improve patient outcomes will be discussed.