Novel biomarkers for CKD risk stratification: a literature review

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive illness with high morbidity and mortality that warrants early and accurate risk stratification for optimal management. The traditional biomarkers, serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), are insufficient for detecting early CKD and long-term prognosis. Novel biomarkers have emerged as effective tools to complement CKD diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic monitoring. AIM: The aim of this research was to determine the potential of novel biomarkers in CKD risk stratification and their clinical significance for improving early detection, monitoring disease progression, and developing individualized treatment strategies. METHODS: A literature review was conducted by searching the PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases to identify studies on novel CKD biomarkers, including cystatin C, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), and specific microRNAs. RESULTS: Emerging evidence suggests that novel biomarkers provide superior predictive abilities compared to traditional markers. Cystatin C is more accurate in kidney function estimation, whereas NGAL and KIM-1 are markers of early kidney injury. MicroRNAs show potential in distinguishing between CKD subtypes and predicting disease progression. Clinical application of these biomarkers may enhance CKD risk stratification, allowing more targeted intervention strategies. CONCLUSION: New biomarkers in CKD risk stratification represent a watershed moment in nephrology, offering improved early detection and prognostic accuracy. While promising, additional large-scale research and clinical validation are required before they can be used routinely.