Novel biomarkers and therapies in cardiorenal syndrome

Renal and cardiac diseases frequently co-exist and are associated with adverse outcomes. The clinical management of patients with a cardiorenal syndrome aims at reducing fluid overload and congestion, while improving kidney function. Early diagnosis and prompt therapies are key to better outcome. Biomarkers may help to gain insight on the ongoing pathological processes and since an accurate and early diagnosis of the cardiorenal syndrome based on clinical findings is not always possible. Serum creatinine, the derived eGFR and blood urea nitrogen are the standard tools for recognizing changes in renal function but suffer some limitations. In this review we will discuss the role of emerging biomarkers of renal tubular and glomerular injury, bone-mineral axis, or tubular cell-cycle arrest.