Key takeaways
- IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is a kidney disease involving immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibody buildup in the kidneys. Research suggests gut dysbiosis — an imbalance in gut bacteria — may contribute to IgAN by weakening the intestinal barrier, triggering immune responses, and increasing abnormal IgA production.
- Beneficial gut bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that have anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect against kidney damage. Gut dysbiosis can reduce SCFA production, potentially worsening inflammation and IgAN progression.
- Emerging treatments targeting the gut-kidney axis include probiotics, dietary changes like increasing fiber intake, and experimental approaches such as antibiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). Talk with a healthcare professional before starting any gut-focused interventions for IgAN.
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is a kidney disease that involves the buildup of an antibody called immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the kidneys. This buildup causes inflammation and damage to the kidney’s filtering units.
The gut microbiome refers to the community of microorganisms that live within the digestive tract.
Recent research reveals that the trillions of bacteria living in the gut may play a
In this article, we discuss the connection between the gut microbiome and IgA nephropathy.
Some experts describe a healthy gut microbiome as one that contains a balance of beneficial species of bacteria.
“Gut dysbiosis” refers to an imbalance in the community of bacteria living in the digestive system. There are various mechanisms through which gut dysbiosis may contribute to the worsening of IgAN.
In people with IgAN, gut dysbiosis often means an increase in harmful bacteria and a decrease in beneficial bacteria that support immune health and reduce inflammation.
When this occurs, the intestinal barrier can become more permeable, allowing bacterial products to enter the bloodstream. This causes immune responses that may contribute to the production of abnormal IgA and kidney inflammation.
Short-chain fatty acids
Beneficial bacteria have various functions in the gut. For example, some produce compounds called short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) when they break down dietary fiber.
SCFAs have anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect against kidney damage in IgAN by supporting immune regulation and gut barrier function. During gut dysbiosis, a person may produce fewer SCFAs, depriving them of these intestinal benefits.
Additionally, research suggests that an imbalance in the gut can lead to the overproduction of abnormal IgA antibodies that form immune complexes. These complexes deposit in the kidneys, triggering inflammation and contributing to IgAN progression.
Given the role of the gut microbiota in the progression of IgAN, the gut-kidney axis has become an area of focus for researchers developing treatments for the condition.
Researchers have been exploring treatment avenues such as antibiotics, probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and dietary modifications.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics and other drug therapies have been shown to modify the gut microbiota. Researchers have been exploring their use for IgAN through animal studies.
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Probiotics
Probiotics are living bacteria and yeasts. When added to a person’s diet, they have been shown to help regulate a person’s gut microbiome and immune response.
Some research suggests that probiotic supplements, particularly those containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, may help restore gut balance and reduce inflammation in people with IgAN.
However, more studies are needed, and people should speak with their doctor before starting any supplements.
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT)
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a medical procedure to restore a healthy balance to a person’s gut bacteria. It involves the transfer of stool from a healthy donor to another person’s digestive tract.
Early research shows it may help relieve symptoms in people with IgAN, though it is still being studied.
Dietary changes
Research suggests that diet can play a role in the progression and severity of IgAN, with high protein diets being linked to damage to the kidney’s filtering function.
Conversely, diet may also be used to help relieve symptoms. A 2025 review looked at research into the effects of certain foods on the gut microbiota and the severity of IgAN.
Among its findings were that a diet rich in fiber from vegetables, whole grains, and fruits can support beneficial gut bacteria and promote the production of SCFAs.
This can have the effect of relieving inflammation, improving the function of the intestinal barrier, and slowing the progression of IgAN.
Yes, if a person has IgAN, they may wish to speak with their doctor about gut health.
While research on the gut-kidney connection is promising, it is important for individuals to work with a healthcare professional to develop a comprehensive treatment plan and determine whether treatments targeting the gut may be right for them.
A doctor can help determine if dietary changes, probiotics, or other interventions might be appropriate for their specific situation.
Studies have shown that IgAN development is related to an imbalance in the gut microbiome.
This imbalance, called gut dysbiosis, affects a person’s immune response and increases the amount of IgA their bodies create.
Microbiome-targeted therapies are being studied as potential complementary treatments for IgAN alongside conventional approaches, but more research is needed.
While improving gut health may help manage symptoms and slow disease progression, there is currently no cure for IgAN.