Is TCF7L2 variant associated with non-diabetic chronic kidney disease progression? Results of a family-based study.

Abstract

It is assumed that genetic factors may play a significant role in CKD development. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of rs7903146 polymorphism in the TCF7L2 gene in development and progression of non-diabetic chronic kidney disease (CKD). 109 children and young adults with CKD caused by primary glomerulopathy and tubulointerstitial nephropathy, stages 3-5, and their 218 biological parents with no renal dysfunction were included in the study. We tested the transmission of alleles of rs7903146 polymorphism in the TCF7L2 gene from heterozygous parents to offspring affected with CKD using the transmission/disequilibrium test. We also analysed whether rs7903146 polymorphism had any impact on the loss of glomerular filtration rate. The rs7903146 polymorphism in TCF7L2 allele transmission from heterozygous parents to their affected children was not different from a random proportion expected for no association, in the whole group of subjects, and in the subgroups, depending on CKD aetiology. Lack of association between the analysed polymorphism and the loss of glomerular filtration rate was found in the total group of patients as well as in the subgroups, regarding the cause of CKD. This study found no association between rs7903146 polymorphism in the TCF7L2 gene and the increased risk for development of CKD caused by primary glomerulopathy and analysed tubulointerstitial nephropathy. The progression rate of CKD of non-diabetic aetiology does not depend on this polymorphism.