Crystal-cell interaction inhibition by polysaccharides.

PURPOSE We studied the effect of polysaccharides on interactions between calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) crystals and cultured renal cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS Monolayers of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells were incubated with radiolabeled crystals in the presence of various concentrations of natural glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and semisynthetic polysaccharides (SSPs). RESULTS While most GAGs were found to have relatively little effect, SSPs (SP54, G871 and G872) were potent inhibitors of crystal-cell association. Pretreatment of crystals, but not of cells, was similarly effective, suggesting polysaccharide-induced modification of crystal surface properties. CONCLUSIONS This result further supports the idea that SSPs, and especially G872, are of potential interest for treatment of recurrent stone disease.