A study published in Nature Genetics found variations in the gene MYH9, located on chromosome 22, are associated with an increased risk for non-diabetic end stage renal disease (ESRD) in African Americans. The results in the study found genetic factors as well as environmental and behavioral risk factors play a role in the occurrence of kidney disease.
 
These gene variations are common among African Americans, although not everyone with the variations has the disease, and not everyone with ESRD has these variations. Researchers are hoping future studies will help to better understand the biology of kidney disease progression, and may direct drug therapy and screening for kidney disease.

This article originally appeared in the December 2008 issue of Renal Flash.