Serum Biomarkers of Renal Fibrosis: A Systematic Review

Alice Barinotti1,2, Massimo Radin1,2, Irene Cecchi1,2

  • 1University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases (ERK-Net, ERN-Reconnect and RITA-ERN Member) with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID), Coordinating Center of the Interregional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley, San Giovanni Bosco Hub Hospital, 10154 Turin, Italy.

Insights

Identifying non-invasive biomarkers for renal fibrosis in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is crucial. Current evidence is scattered, suggesting a need for multi-faceted approaches to improve diagnosis and management.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Biomarker Discovery
  • Pathophysiology

Background:

  • Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health concern with rising prevalence.
  • Renal fibrosis, an irreversible process, is the primary driver of CKD progression and dysfunction.
  • Current diagnostic methods like kidney biopsy are invasive and have limitations.

Approach:

  • Systematic review of serological biomarkers for renal fibrosis in CKD patients.
  • Analysis focused on evidence published within the last five years.
  • Evaluation of the scattered nature of current research findings.

Key Points:

  • Several promising serological biomarkers for renal fibrosis have been identified.
  • The existing evidence for these biomarkers is highly fragmented and requires further validation.
  • No single biomarker appears sufficient to capture the complexity of renal fibrosis.

Conclusions:

  • Novel non-invasive biomarkers for renal fibrosis are urgently needed in CKD management.
  • A combination of biomarkers targeting different aspects of fibrosis may offer a more comprehensive diagnostic and prognostic tool.
  • Integrated biomarker strategies could significantly enhance prevention, diagnosis, and management of CKD.

Related Concept Videos

Serum Studies: Renal Function Tests01:24

Serum Studies: Renal Function Tests

Renal function tests are crucial for assessing kidney health, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating the kidneys' efficiency in waste elimination, fluid balance, and electrolyte regulation. These tests offer critical insights into kidney function, even though routine measurements may appear normal until there is a significant decline in the glomerular filtration rate or GFR. Typically, signs of kidney impairment only become evident when the GFR falls to about 50% of its normal level.
34
Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management01:26

Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management

IntroductionNephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder marked by excessive protein loss in the urine, leading to various systemic complications. This condition often results from damage to the glomeruli—the kidney's filtering units—causing proteinuria, low blood protein levels, and fluid retention. Understanding the assessment, diagnosis, and management of nephrotic syndrome is essential for effective treatment and prevention of further kidney damage.AssessmentPatient History: Document...
16
Factors Affecting Renal Clearance: Renal Impairment01:17

Factors Affecting Renal Clearance: Renal Impairment

Renal dysfunction significantly impairs the renal clearance of drugs, leading to potential complications in drug therapy. Renal failure, which can be caused by various factors, poses a significant challenge in the elimination of drugs from the body.
One condition associated with renal failure is uremia. Uremia is characterized by impaired glomerular filtration and fluid accumulation in the body. This condition hinders the renal clearance of drugs, resulting in drug accumulation and potential...
139
Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction01:24

Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction

Nephrotic Syndrome is a chronic kidney disorder defined by clinical findings such as severe proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia, and edema. These symptoms result from damage to the glomeruli, the kidney’s filtering units, increasing their permeability to proteins.Definition and Meaning:Proteinuria, defined as the loss of more than 3.5 grams of protein per day in adults, is a crucial feature of nephrotic syndrome. This condition is often accompanied by edema, the accumulation of...
18
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention01:30

Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention

Accurate diagnosis and effective prevention are critical in managing Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), which is linked to high mortality rates ranging from 10% to 80%. Timely recognition of at-risk patients and careful monitoring can significantly reduce the likelihood of kidney damage.Diagnostic Assessments:The diagnostic process starts with a comprehensive medical history to identify prerenal, intrarenal, and postrenal causes.Prerenal causes, such as dehydration, hypotension, or blood loss, should...
53
Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care01:28

Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) requires collaborative and comprehensive management. CKD progresses through stages and can lead to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) if untreated. Interprofessional collaboration and patient education are crucial, enabling patients to manage their health and improve their quality of life.Diagnostic approach for chronic kidney diseaseThe diagnosis of CKD primarily focuses on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which assesses kidney function by measuring how well...
70