Gender and Age Variations in Biomarkers of Diabetic Nephrotoxicity in a Nigerian Teaching Hospital: KIM-1, Cystatin C and Microalbuminuria

Abstract

Background: Early detection of diabetic nephropathy (DN) is crucial for preventing its progression to chronic kidney disease. While biomarkers like Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1), Cystatin C, and microalbuminuria aid in identifying renal injury, gender- and age-related variations are poorly characterised in Nigerian populations. Objective: To investigate the influence of gender and age on the levels of KIM-1, Cystatin C, and microalbuminuria in diabetic patients attending a Nigerian teaching hospital. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving diabetic adults. Blood and urine samples were analysed for KIM-1, Cystatin C, and microalbuminuria using ELISA and immunoturbidimetric methods. Participants were stratified by gender and by age groups (26–35, 36–45, 46–55, 56–65, 66–75 years). Results: Older participants exhibited significantly higher levels of KIM-1, Cystatin C, and microalbuminuria (p<0.05). Males had higher KIM-1 and Cystatin C levels than females, suggesting a greater tubular damage burden. Microalbuminuria was consistently elevated across both genders. Age positively correlated with all biomarkers, indicating increased renal vulnerability with advancing age. Significant correlations were observed between the early biomarkers and traditional renal parameters, confirming their utility in detecting subclinical injury. Conclusion: Gender and age significantly influence biomarkers of diabetic nephrotoxicity. The elevation of KIM-1 and Cystatin C was pronounced among older males. These findings support targeted, biomarker-based screening to improve the early identification of diabetic kidney injury and enable timely intervention.