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Hiding in Plain Sight – Identify APOL1-Mediated Kidney Disease

Identify APOL1 variants associated with APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD) with Renasight™ sponsored renal genetic testing for eligible* patients of African ancestry††

Black Americans are 4 times more likely to develop kidney failure compared to other populations, raising the possibility of an underlying genetic contribution to this disparity1,2

Genetic testing is a critical first step—genetic testing is the only way to confirm if a patient has AMKD.

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is sponsoring a no-cost Renasight™ renal genetic testing for eligible* patients of African ancestry diagnosed with chronic kidney disease††

The Importance of Genetic Testing for APOL1-Mediated Kidney Disease (AMKD)

Genetic testing is the only way to confirm a diagnosis of AMKD.

APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD) is a genetic form of chronic kidney disease (CKD) that leads to faster progression and earlier kidney failure.

Research shows that patients of African ancestry with two APOL1 risk variants—the genetic signature of AMKD—may progress to dialysis 9 to 12 years earlier than those without high-risk variants.3

Why a Definitive AMKD Diagnosis Matters

A confirmed AMKD diagnosis provides clarity and opens the door to more tailored care. It can help healthcare providers:

  • Identify the underlying cause of kidney disease and assess long-term prognosis
  • Personalize monitoring and management based on genetic risk
  • Inform treatment decisions that reflect individual risk profiles
  • Uncover eligibility for clinical trials and emerging therapies

The Value of Comprehensive Genetic Testing

While AMKD is a key concern in patients of African ancestry, it’s not the only genetic factor in CKD. Renasight™ can uncover additional genetic kidney conditions that may impact patient care.

Renasight™ offers comprehensive, sponsored renal genetic testing to identify APOL1 variants and other genetic contributors to kidney disease—all from a single test.

Learn more about the sponsored Renasight™ genetic testing program

Select your user type to proceed!

APOL1-mediated kidney disease as well as other genetic kidney disease diagnoses can only be made by a healthcare provider when taking into consideration all patient health information, including genetic testing results

†† The Sponsored Renasight™ Genetic Testing Program is funded by Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated. Additional terms and conditions apply. This program is subject to change or discontinuation without notice.

Eligible patients and healthcare providers have no expectations or obligations to Natera or Vertex Pharmaceuticals to participate in the sponsored Renasight™ Genetic Testing Program.

All tests must be ordered by a qualified healthcare provider based on clinical necessity for the patient. Healthcare providers must also confirm patient eligibility criteria for the sponsored Renasight™ Genetic Testing Program and complete a signed attestation form for each patient.

Natera never distributes identifiable patient data or information. Natera will never share identifiable patient data or information. Vertex Pharmaceuticals and third parties may receive aggregated, de-identified data, and contact information for healthcare providers that participate in this sponsored Renasight™ genetic testing program.

References

1Umeukeje EM, Young BA. Genetics and ESKD Disparities in African Americans. Am J Kidney Dis. 2019 Dec;74(6):811-821. doi: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2019.06.006. Epub 2019 Oct 10. PMID: 31606237; PMCID: PMC7373097.

2https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/race-ethnicity

3Elliott MD et al. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2023;34(5):909-919

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