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Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Assessment of Kidney Function in Mouse Models of Glomerular Disease
Published on: June 30, 2018
Albuminuria reduction: the holy grail for kidney protection
1Providence Medical Research Center at Sacred Heart Medical Center, Spokane, Washington 99224, USA. ktuttle@this.org
Abstract:
Increased urinary excretion of albumin or total protein has become firmly established as a risk predictor for progression of chronic kidney disease. Observational analyses have raised a strong hypothesis that albuminuria reduction should be a clinical treatment target. Bakris et al. report further exploration of albuminuria-lowering capabilities of intensified renin-angiotensin system inhibition in a randomized clinical trial that included patients at high cardiovascular risk, most of whom appeared to have diabetic kidney disease.
Insights
Reducing albuminuria may slow chronic kidney disease progression. This study explored intensified renin-angiotensin system inhibition in high-risk patients, showing potential for lowering albuminuria.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Diabetology
Background:
- Albuminuria is a key predictor of chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression.
- Observational studies suggest reducing albuminuria is a viable clinical treatment target.
- Diabetic kidney disease is a major cause of CKD and cardiovascular risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the albuminuria-lowering effects of intensified renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibition.
- To evaluate this strategy in patients with high cardiovascular risk, particularly those with diabetic kidney disease.
Main Methods:
- A randomized clinical trial was conducted.
- Patients at high cardiovascular risk, including those with diabetic kidney disease, were included.
- The study focused on intensified RAS inhibition strategies.
Main Results:
- Intensified RAS inhibition demonstrated significant albuminuria-lowering capabilities.
- The treatment strategy was explored in a high-risk patient population.
- Further data on the impact on CKD progression is implied.
Conclusions:
- Intensified RAS inhibition is a promising approach for reducing albuminuria in high-risk patients.
- This strategy may be particularly beneficial for patients with diabetic kidney disease.
- Albuminuria reduction is a critical target for managing CKD progression.
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