Modern Biomarkers in IgA Nephropathy and Their Potential in Paediatric Research

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is one of the most common forms of glomerulonephritis and one of the main causes of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), affecting up to 40% of patients after 20 years of the disease. Over the past few years, several studies have been conducted to search for biomarkers that can diagnose IgAN in a non-invasive way, select patients in the asymptomatic phase, assess the progression of the disease process and monitor its efficacy, and assess the risk of IgA nephropathy progression. Non-invasive investigations using molecules as an alternative to renal biopsy have potential relevance for diagnosis, the determination of treatment efficacy and the assessment of disease activity. For the early screening of IgAN with isolated haematuria, these factors may be useful for early intervention and result in a reduction in the risk of impaired renal function. The clinical studies discussed in this review underline that featured molecules show potential as biomarkers for the diagnosis and assessment of disease progress in IgAN.