Advances in understanding the genetic basis of diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a devastating complication of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and leads to increased morbidity and mortality. Earlier work in families has provided strong evidence that heredity is a major determinant of DKD. Previous linkage analyses and candidate gene studies have identified potential DKD genes; however, such approaches have largely been unsuccessful. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have made significant contribution in identifying SNPs associated with common complex diseases. Thanks to advanced technology, new analytical approaches, and international research collaborations, many DKD GWASs have reported unique genes, highlighted novel biological pathways and suggested new disease mechanisms. This review summarizes the current state of GWAS technology; findings from GWASs of DKD and its related traits conducted over the past 15 years and discuss the future of this field.