Genetic susceptibility to diabetic kidney disease: an update

Various types of evidence supporting the hypothesis of genetic susceptibility to diabetic kidney disease (DKD) are reviewed. Three groups of studies were distinguished: (1) epidemiologic and family studies, (2) studies of phenotypic markers/predictors, and (3) studies of DNA markers. Although all of these studies point to the existence of susceptibility to DKD, further research is required. Particularly needed are studies that examine the mechanisms of interaction between genetic susceptibility to DKD and poor glycemic control, and studies to identify specific molecular mechanisms underlying this susceptibility.