Genetic factors in the development and progression of chronic kidney disease

The factors influencing the onset and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) are not completely known. It is believed that genetic factors may play a significant role. The article presents the results of population, family, and animal studies which indicate the participation of genetic factors in CKD development. The main strategies for identifying genes involved in CKD development (genome scan studies and candidate gene studies) are described. Polymorphisms of selected candidate genes for CKD are reviewed. Special attention is paid to studies concerning the genes of the renin-angiotensin-aldosteron system (angiotensin-converting enzyme and angiotensin II type 1 receptor genes), cytokine genes (IL-10, IL-4, IL-6, IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, TGF-beta1, MCP, RANTES), and the gene encoding methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. The results of studies on the role of TGFB1 gene in kidney diseases are analyzed. The genetic basis of IgA nephropathy and kidney insufficiency progression in the course of the disease is shown. The results of genetic studies of CKD are inconclusive. The article underlines the importance of identifying the genetic background of CKD to individualize patient therapy.