Recent advances in the understanding and management of IgA nephropathy [version 1; referees: 3 approved]

• Main Authors: Kar Neng Lai, Joseph C.K. Leung, Sydney C.W. Tang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: F1000 Research Ltd 2016-02-01
• Series: F1000Research
• Subjects: Cardiovascular Pharmacology; Drug Discovery & Design; Gastrointestinal Physiology; Genetics of the Immune System; Immunity to Infections; Immunomodulation; Immunopharmacology & Hematologic Pharmacology; Leukocyte Signaling & Gene Expression; Medical Genetics; Pharmacogenomics; Renal Immunology & Pathology (incl. Glomerular Diseases); Renal Pharmacology
• Online Access: http://f1000research.com/articles/5-161/v1
• ISSN: 2046-1402

Since its first description in 1968, IgA nephropathy has remained the most common form of primary glomerulonephritis leading to chronic kidney disease in developed countries. The clinical progression varies, and consequent end-stage renal disease occurs in 30% to 40% of patients 20 to 30 years after the first clinical presentation. Current data implicate overproduction of aberrantly glycosylated IgA1 as being pivotal in the induction of renal injury. Effective and specific treatment is still lacking, and new therapeutic approaches will be developed after better understanding the disease pathogenesis.