GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotypes as risk factors for chronic kidney disease

Background & objective: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is considered one of the long-term diseases in which the kidneys fail to perform their normal functions adequately. It is a major medical and social problem that impacts about 10-13% of the population. Patients usually have to be put on life-long treatment, including frequent hemodialysis or even renal replacement. The current study was designed to reveal the relationship between genotypes of GSTMI, GSTT1 and the risk factors for CKD, to understand the links with the pathogenesis. Methodology: The current study included 50 CKD patients and 25 healthy individuals without health problems as a control group. Specimens were collected at the Al-Hussein Teaching Hospital from January to March 2024. Multiplex PCR technique was used to detect the genotypes of the studied genes. Besides personal and family history, relevant laboratory investigations were carried out. Results: Family history was the common risk factor for CKD (80%). Urea, creatinine, and sugar levels were higher in CKD patients than in healthy individuals (P < 0.05). The majority of CKD patients (60%) had GSTM1(-) with significant differences compared to healthy patients (OR=1.90; 95%, 0.72-5.04). 48% of the patients had GSTT1(-) but only 32% of the healthy individuals had GSTT1(-). The frequencies of GSTM (-)/ GSTT1(-) were significantly higher among CKD patients (OR=2.26; 95%, 0.74-6.88). Conclusion: The study reveals that the GSTM1(-) / GSTT1(-) genotypes increase the risk of CKD, possibly due to oxidative stress pathways, suggesting the need for targeted therapeutic strategies to mitigate oxidative damage in susceptible populations. Key words: CKD; GSTM1; GSTT1 Citation: Jalood HH, Haddawi KH. GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotypes as risk factors for chronic kidney disease. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2025;29(3):460-465. DOI: 10.35975/apic.v29i3.2759 Received: Feb 18, 2025; Revised: March 10, 2025; Accepted: March 23, 2025