Basic/Clinical Science Session
African Ancestry-Specific Kidney Disease Risk Variants: From Discovery to Precision Therapeutics
October 24, 2026 | 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: Mile High Ballroom 4D, Convention Center
Session Description
This session presents compelling examples of population-specific kidney disease risk variants that arose as a consequence of local environmental adaptations in Africa. The session introduces modern tools of population genetics to identify disease variants under positive selection. Experts discuss the genetic complexities of kidney disease risk in people with APOL1 and sickle cell disease (SCD) variants. Emerging precision therapeutics for APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD) and SCD are also covered.
Note: Continuing education credits are not being offered for this session.
ASN thanks the Kidney Health Initiative's Biologics Committee for assistance with this session.
Learning Objective(s)
- Describe methods used to identify genetic variants under positive selection
- Articulate the complexity of APOL1-mediated kidney disease risk
- Assess kidney disease risk in sickle cell trait and SCD
- Discuss new therapeutic approaches for AMKD and SCD
Learning Pathway(s)
- Genetic Diseases and Development
- CKD Non-Dialysis
Moderators
Presentations
- Genetic Adaptation to Water Stress and Risk of CKD in Northwest Kenya
10:30 AM - 10:50 AM
- Kidney Disease Risk in People with Sickle Cell Trait and Disease
10:50 AM - 11:10 AM
- Not-So-Simple Genetics of APOL1-Mediated Kidney Disease
11:10 AM - 11:30 AM
- Endothelial Effects of APOL1 High-Risk Genotype
11:30 AM - 11:50 AM
- APOL1 and the Dawn of Precision Nephrology
11:50 AM - 12:10 PM
- Q&A
12:10 PM - 12:30 PM