Inherited IgA glycosylation pattern in IgA nephropathy and HSP nephritis: Where do we go next

Abstract

New data from Kiryluk et al. show the importance of genetic factors in determining the profile of serum IgA1 O-glycoforms in IgA nephropathy and Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis. Elevated serum levels of poorly galactosylated IgA1 O-glycoforms do not, however, appear sufficient in themselves to cause nephritis in these two diseases, and a second hit is necessary before changes in IgA1 glycosylation translate into clinical disease. The challenge now is to determine what these genetic factors are. © 2011 International Society of Nephrology.