The Future of Kidney Care: Understanding Genetic Kidney Diseases and the Role of Natera Testing

At CT Kidney and Hypertension Specialists, we are committed to bringing the most advanced diagnostic tools to our patients—tools that not only help us understand disease more precisely, but also guide more personalized and effective treatment plans. One of the most promising developments in nephrology today is the rapidly expanding field of genetic testing for kidney disease, with innovative platforms such as Natera’s Renasight™ test leading the way.

Why Genetic Testing Matters in Kidney Disease

Kidney disease has long been recognized as a complex condition influenced by multiple factors—lifestyle, environment, underlying medical conditions, and, in many cases, genetics. Historically, many hereditary kidney diseases were diagnosed late, often after significant loss of kidney function or when family members developed similar issues. Today, genetic testing offers a powerful opportunity to identify the root cause earlier and more accurately.

Genetic insights can help:

• Clarify the underlying cause of chronic kidney disease when routine testing is inconclusive

• Predict disease progression, allowing for earlier intervention

• Guide optimal treatment strategies, including medication choices and transplant planning

• Identify at-risk family members, enabling preventative care

• Prevent misdiagnosis and reduce unnecessary procedures

This is where modern genetic panels have become transformational.

Natera’s Renasight Test: A New Frontier in Diagnosis

Natera’s Renasight test is one of the most comprehensive genetic screening tools available for kidney disease today. With the ability to evaluate more than 280 genes associated with hereditary kidney disorders, this test offers clarity and confidence in conditions that can otherwise remain uncertain.

Renasight screens for genetic variants linked to disorders such as:

• Alport syndrome

• Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD)

• Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease (ARPKD)

• Tubulopathies

• Complement-mediated kidney diseases

• Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT)

• And many others

For patients with a family history of kidney disease, early-onset CKD, unexplained hematuria or proteinuria, or unusual patterns of disease progression, this test can offer answers that were not available just a few years ago.

A Noninvasive and Accessible Option

One of the major advantages of this testing is its simplicity. A single blood or saliva sample can unlock information that previously required invasive biopsies, years of observation, or in some cases, remained unknown. Results typically arrive within weeks, allowing our team to integrate the findings quickly into individualized care plans.

How Genetic Testing Shapes the Future of Kidney Care

As genetic understanding expands, the future of nephrology is shifting toward precision medicine—care tailored to the individual rather than generalized treatment approaches.

In the years ahead, we anticipate:

• More targeted therapies designed for specific genetic variants

• Improved transplant matching and better prediction of transplant outcomes

• Earlier identification of disease in at-risk family members through cascade testing

• Preventative treatment strategies that may delay or prevent CKD progression

• Greater insight into complex and rare conditions that previously eluded diagnosis

At CT Kidney and Hypertension Specialists, we believe that embracing this technology positions our patients at the forefront of modern kidney care.

Is Genetic Testing Right for You?

Not every patient needs genetic screening, but many can benefit—especially those with early-onset CKD, a family history of kidney disease, or an unclear diagnosis. If you’re interested in learning more about genetic testing or would like to discuss whether Natera’s Renasight test is appropriate for your situation, our team is here to help.