The Rutgers University Study of the Genetics of Kidney Disease

This is an online research study to learn more about how genes affect the risk of kidney disease. This is an online research study to learn more about how genes affect the risk of kidney disease. No office visit is required and in return, participants may receive information about their genetic ancestry for free. One in seven individuals in the United States today has chronic kidney disease (CDC 2023). The heritability -a measure of genetic, as opposed to environmental, contribution to a disease- of kidney function such as the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) has been estimated at 38%This study will increase our understanding of the genetic basis of kidney disease, which is a crucial step in drug development to improve current treatment options. The study investigators seek a diverse population because diversity among participants maximizes the usefulness of the data. Participants will use our online study portal to answer questions about their health and provide their DNA via a saliva sample using a pre-paid mailer. Participation takes approximately 20 minutes. Participants will be invited to share data from their electronic health records, but this is not required for study participation. The study investigators keep participants engaged with short monthly newsletters.