A potential new kidney disease biomarker, suPAR, is causing a big stir in the research community. Previous studies have identified the blood protein as a potential cause of Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis, or FSGS. Now a multi-institutional study involving scientists from Rush University, Emory University, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, NYU Langone Medical Center, and John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital, has linked elevated levels of suPAR to a wider range of chronic kidney disease. Though more research is needed, the circulating blood factor appears to be an early predictor of CKD and could represent an important drug target. In the future, a simple suPAR blood test could help doctors identify high risk patients in need of preventive care.
Source:
Early Warning Found for Chronic Kidney Disease, Medical Xpress, November 5, 2015