In a recent interview with Pharmacy Times, Dr. Steven G. Coca, a professor of medicine at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, sheds light on the advancements in chronic kidney disease (CKD) treatment.

He discusses the significance of early identification of CKD and potential markers for predicting its onset. Dr. Coca emphasizes the importance of considering clinical variables for individualized treatment and the role of precision medicine in predicting outcomes for individuals with diabetic kidney disease.

The interview anticipates Dr. Coca's presentation at the ASN Kidney Week, where he will discuss "Precision Medicine in the Prediction of Kidney Disease Progression in Diabetes." The evolving landscape of biomarkers and precision medicine is expected to transform the future of CKD prediction and treatment strategies.

Dr. Coca stresses the critical role of risk assessment once CKD is identified. Despite stable kidney function in many patients with stage G3 CKD, awareness of individual kidney health remains a challenge.

He highlights the potential of protein-based biomarkers in refining risk prognostication, particularly in the early stages of CKD where fluctuations are common. While genetic factors and advanced diagnostic techniques are still under exploration, protein-based biomarkers commercially developed for prognostication are viewed as a valuable addition.

The impact of these markers and precision medicine on the future of diabetic kidney disease and CKD prediction and treatment is profound. Dr. Coca envisions a future where multiple therapies and biomarkers will enable the sub-phenotyping of patients.

This approach will not only assess the risk but also determine the priority for specific drug interventions. Drawing parallels with oncology, where sub-typing and molecular understanding guide treatment decisions, nephrology aims to reach a similar level of precision. As new therapies emerge, the goal is to optimize treatment regimens based on an individual's unique clinical and biomarker profile.

The continuous evolution of precision medicine and biomarkers in CKD management promises a more targeted and personalized approach, providing insights into an individual's kidney health trajectory and guiding clinicians in tailoring effective treatment strategies.