Genetics in Kidney Diseases

Abstract

With the increasing availability of genetic testing, nephrologists can now incorporate genetic testing results into traditional biochemical profiles and kidney biopsy data to provide more accurate diagnoses. Moreover, if available, therapeutic approaches can be further tailored to individual genetic testing results to avoid unnecessary exposure to prolonged immunosuppressive medications with often undesirable side effects. Identifying new genetic mutations in kidney diseases also opens new avenues to novel drug targets. Here, we present five clinical questions summarizing some genetic kidney diseases and updates.