Genetics of kidney traits in worldwide populations: the Continental Origins and Genetic Epidemiology Network (COGENT) Kidney Consortium.

Abstract

We describe our collaborative efforts to increase representation of diverse populations in genomic research of kidney phenotypes to fill an unmet need to further understanding of the genetic contribution to chronic kidney disease (CKD) across the globe. These efforts led to the creation of the Continental Origins and Genetic Epidemiology Network Kidney (COGENT-Kidney) Consortium, focused on developing statistical methods for the analysis of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) across diverse populations and their application to renal traits and CKD. Resources generated within the consortium will provide a framework for future studies of genetic risk of CKD in worldwide populations. Our intent is to foster collaborations for studies of populations that are underrepresented in GWAS, increase awareness of the challenges and opportunities in studying these populations, and promote more genomic research across increasingly diverse populations.