Researchers reviewed data from over 31,000 people to see if a specific marker called suPAR could predict kidney issues. The study found that higher suPAR levels were linked to a higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease and end-stage kidney disease in adults who still had preserved kidney function. However, the marker did not help distinguish certain specific types of kidney diseases, such as FSGS, from others.
While the data showed some links to heart health, these findings were based on observational data and are considered to have low certainty. Additionally, the marker lost its predictive power in children and certain metabolic groups when other factors like inflammation were taken into account.
It is important to note that this research is currently limited by a lack of diverse data and consistent testing methods. Because of these gaps, doctors do not currently use suPAR as a routine tool for clinical decisions. More large-scale studies and consistent testing methods are needed before it can be used reliably in everyday medical practice.
