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Published on: June 23, 2015
HLA phenotypes and idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children
Insights
Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) markers DR7 and B8-DR3 are significantly increased in children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). These HLA associations suggest a more severe disease course in patients with these genetic markers.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) System
Background:
- Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is a complex kidney disorder in children.
- Genetic factors are implicated in the pathogenesis of INS.
- Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) antigens are crucial for immune system function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between HLA-A, B, and DR antigens and idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children.
- To determine if specific HLA alleles correlate with disease severity or steroid resistance in INS.
Main Methods:
- HLA typing for HLA-A, B, and DR antigens was performed on 94 children with INS.
- A subset of 17 patients had steroid-resistant disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).
- Patient HLA antigen frequencies were compared to healthy controls.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in DR7 (58% vs 18%) and B8-DR3 (27% vs 5%) was observed in children with INS compared to controls.
- The combined presence of DR7 and B8-DR3 was found in 14% of patients versus none of the controls (relative risk 15.2).
- Patients positive for B8-DR3 and DR7 exhibited a more severe disease course.
Conclusions:
- Specific HLA antigens, particularly DR7 and B8-DR3, are strongly associated with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children.
- The presence of these HLA markers may indicate a predisposition to a more severe form of INS.
- Further research into the immunogenetic basis of INS could inform diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Abstract:
Ninety-four children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (17 steroid-resistant with a histological diagnosis of a focal segmental glomerulosclerosis) were typed for HLA-A, B and DR antigens. The patients showed a significant increase of DR7 (58% vs 18%, p less than 0.0001) and of B8-DR3 (27% vs 5%, p less than 0.05). Combination of both markers (DR7 and B8-DR3) was observed in 14 per cent of patients but in none of the controls (relative risk 15.2). Patients with B8-DR3 and DR7 had a more severe course of INS.
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