THE GENETICS OF HYPERURICEMIA AND GOUTY NEPHROPATHY

Abstract

Gout is a common joint disease caused by hyperuricemia. This article provides new information on the genes that cause gouty nephropathy, including the results of genomic studies. Most gout-related genes are involved in the renal urate transport system. For example, the urate carrier genes SLC2A9, ABCG2, and SLC22A12 modulate uric acid levels and hence the risk of developing gout. SLC2A9 and SLC22A12 genes provide the balance of uric acid absorption and secretion in the kidneys. It is here that mutations in these genes upset this balance.The discovery of these genes greatly expands our understanding of the role of urate carriers in the pathogenesis of gout.