Calcium Oxalate Crystallization (None)

Calcium oxalate crystallization refers to the process by which calcium ions (Ca2+) and oxalate ions (C2O42-) combine to form insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. This process is significant in both biological and pathological contexts, most notably as the primary inorganic component of kidney stones in humans, but also as a common biomineral in plants. The process involves nucleation, growth, aggregation, and retention. Several factors influence the crystallization process, including supersaturation, pH, and urinary macromolecules. In humans, crystal retention depends on interactions between crystals and renal tubular epithelial cells.

Other names

Calcium oxalate stone formationKidney stone formationCalcium oxalate biomineralization

Citrate inhibits calcium oxalate crystal formation by binding to crystal surfaces.