Are recently reported biomarkers helpful for early and accurate diagnosis of acute kidney injury?

Over the past few years and with the use of innovative genomic and proteomic tools, several molecules that their urinary concentration is modified during acute kidney injury have been identified and proposed as biomarkers. Among the most studied biomarkers are neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin-2, kidney injury molecule-1, interleukin-18, cystatin C, N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, liver fatty-acid binding protein, and heat shock protein 72. Here, we reviewed and compared the sensitivity and specificity of each biomarker for the appropriate diagnosis of acute kidney injury, as well as its ability to stratify renal injury and to monitor a renoprotective pharmacologic strategy.