Indoxyl sulfate, a valuable biomarker in chronic kidney disease and dialysis

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an increasingly recognized disease with high global incidence and mortality. Yet, the existing diagnostic tools are not sufficient enough to predict prognosis of CKD and CKD comorbidities. Indoxyl sulfate, a typical uremic toxin, is of great importance in the development of CKD with its nephrotoxicity, cardiovascular toxicity, and bone toxicity. Some reports suggest that indoxyl sulfate directly associate with renal function loss and mortality in CKD patients. This review discusses the diagnostic value of indoxyl sulfate from its biological characteristics, pathophysiological effects, related therapies, and its diagnostic value in clinical studies.