Next-generation nephrology: part 2—mainstreaming genomics in nephrology, a global perspective

TL;DR

This paper reviews global efforts to integrate genomics into nephrology, highlighting challenges and strategies for improving kidney genetic services worldwide.

Contribution

The paper provides a global perspective on mainstreaming genomics in nephrology, emphasizing educational strategies and multidisciplinary models.

Findings

Multidisciplinary clinics are effective in delivering kidney genetic services.

Educational strategies are addressing the genomic literacy gap among nephrologists.

Equitable access to genomics services remains a significant challenge.

Abstract

Kidney genetic services are being created worldwide, revolutionising the way in which we manage families with suspected monogenic kidney disease. There is potential to learn from one another, whether one is just embarking on this journey or within an established kidney genetics service model with aspirations to optimise it further. This concluding portion of our two-part educational review explores the global efforts to integrate genomics into nephrology. We discuss key considerations for establishing kidney genetics services and share insights from successful implementation in Australia, India, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US), through case studies. Widespread integration of genomics within nephrology still faces barriers including limited genomics education among clinicians, high costs and ethical concerns. Educational strategies including workshop-based, online resources and clinical decision tools are aiming to address the genomic literacy gap among nephrologists. Multidisciplinary kidney genetics clinic models comprising nephrologists, geneticists, clinical scientists and counsellors are proving to be an effective model of delivering this diagnostic tool. Data of how kidney genetics clinics can foster collaboration with registries to facilitate research and shared learning to optimise care for patients are becoming evident. We also explore the importance of equitable access to genomics services across diverse populations, advocating for policies that address disparities in access to healthcare and genetic data representation. We hope to highlight the importance of upskilling the nephrology workforce to fully leverage the advances in genomic medicine and ensure comprehensive, accessible and personalised care for patients with genetic kidney diseases.

A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information

A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00467-025-06711-7.

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