The Friedman Lab studies the genetics of chronic kidney disease. We use human genetic and genomic studies to identify genetic variants important in kidney disease. We use mouse and cellular models to study these disease-associated variants using genetic, pharmacologic, biochemical, and molecular biology tools to understand their impact on kidney function. Current projects include 1) understanding the role of the APOL1 gene in causing kidney disease in African Americans and 2) identifying the genetic factors that confer susceptibility to a chronic kidney disease in Central America, called Mesoamerican Nephropathy. Our goal is to translate discoveries about disease processes into new therapies and/or prevention strategies for patients.