Genetic Factors Affecting Kidney Function Decline in Women
Author Information
Author(s): Cooper Worobey Cynthia, Fisher Naomi D. L., Cox David, Forman John P., Curhan Gary C.
Primary Institution: Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School
Hypothesis
Genetic polymorphisms may influence the rate of renal function decline in women.
Conclusion
Genetic variants in the angiotensinogen, angiotensin II type 1 receptor, and alpha-adducin genes may contribute to loss of renal function in women.
Supporting Evidence
- The angiotensinogen AGT A-20C polymorphism was associated with a higher risk of renal function decline.
- Homozygosity for the AT1R A1166C polymorphism was marginally associated with a higher risk of renal function decline.
- The alpha-adducin G460W polymorphism was associated with a lower risk of renal function decline.
Takeaway
Some genes can make women more likely to have kidney problems as they get older.
Methodology
The study examined the relationship between specific genetic polymorphisms and renal function decline over 11 years in 2578 Caucasian women.
Potential Biases
Potential misclassification of GFR due to limitations of the MDRD equation in individuals with near normal renal function.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable to other populations as all participants were female and Caucasian.
Participant Demographics
All participants were female and Caucasian, with a mean age of 56.3 years at baseline.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.04
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.02–3.26
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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