New data is helping researchers better understand a protein called Neutrophil Gelatinasse Lipocalin (NGAL) and its role in causing kidney disease in HIV patients, also called Human Immunodeficiency Virus-associated nephropathy (HIVAN). The data also distinguished the development of kidney disease from NGAL from more common causes such as diabetes and hypertension.
 
During a study, researchers discovered high levels of NGAL excreted in urine were caused by cysts frequently seen in individuals with HIVAN. This discovery can help quickly identify HIVAN among other types of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and intervene before the kidney fails.  

This article originally appeared in the August 2009 issue of Kidney Beginnings: The Electronic Newsletter.