Is there a genetic variant linked to lupus nephritis risk in Chinese Han populations?
Lupus nephritis (LN) is a serious kidney complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Genetic factors play a role in who develops LN and how severe it becomes. In Chinese Han populations, researchers have identified specific genetic variants that increase the risk of LN. One well-studied variant is rs80213143 in the long non-coding RNA gene LOC100130476.
What the research says
A study in a Chinese Han cohort found that the rs80213143 variant in the LOC100130476 gene is strongly associated with SLE susceptibility and LN risk. The risk C allele was linked to more severe renal involvement, including higher 24-hour proteinuria and serum creatinine levels 6. This association was confirmed in an independent replication cohort and combined analysis (p = 2.04 × 10⁻¹⁴) 6.
Other genetic variants have also been identified in East Asian populations. A 2025 study in a Taiwanese cohort reported four novel variants associated with LN: rs1025129 in HGF, rs80282109 in BACH2, rs516119 in SOX1, and rs134545 in TTC28 10. Additionally, a 2024 study found that the enhancer variant rs4808485 increases SLE risk by modulating inflammasome machinery, and this variant may also influence LN susceptibility 9.
While these findings highlight the genetic complexity of LN, the rs80213143 variant is the most directly linked to LN risk in Chinese Han populations specifically 6. Other variants have been identified in broader East Asian or Taiwanese cohorts 910.
What to ask your doctor
- Should I consider genetic testing for the rs80213143 variant if I have SLE or a family history of lupus?
- How does knowing my genetic risk for lupus nephritis affect my monitoring or treatment plan?
- Are there other genetic variants, like those in HGF or BACH2, that might be relevant for my ancestry?
- Can genetic information help predict how severe my kidney involvement might become?
- What lifestyle or medication changes can help reduce my risk of lupus nephritis if I have a high-risk genetic variant?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about this topic and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.