Beta-trace protein as a marker of GFR--history, indications, and future research.
OBJECTIVE
Recent findings suggest that beta-trace protein (BTP), a small molecular weight protein, is at least equal if not superior to serum creatinine as a marker of glomerular filtration rate (GFR), particularly since it is independent from height, gender, age, and muscle mass. The authors sought to summarize knowledge on BTP and its use as a marker of GFR using the most recent literature available.


METHODS
The authors compiled key articles and all relevant recent literature on this topic. Physical and chemical features of the molecule are described, as well as factors that may affect its expression. The use of BTP in estimating GFR as a whole and in specific patient groups, including pregnant women, neonates and infants, children and adolescents, and patients who have undergone renal transplantation is discussed. The use of BTP as a marker for cardiovascular risk factors is also briefly addressed.


RESULTS
Although its performance in the general population is marginally inferior to cystatin C, studies have suggested that it may be superior in accurately estimating GFR in select patient groups such as pregnant women and neonates.


CONCLUSIONS
This novel marker shows promise, but further research is required to clarify findings from available data.
Department of Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N5A 5A5, Canada; Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N5A 5A5, Canada. Electronic address: guido.filler@lhsc.on.ca.
Guido
G
Filler
Department of Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada.
Carola
C
Kusserow
Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada.
Laudelino
L
Lopes
Department of Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada.
Marta
M
Kobrzyński
D015415:Biomarkers / Q000097:blood* / Q000378:metabolism*; D055316:Cystatin C / Q000737:chemistry; D005919:Glomerular Filtration Rate / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D019746:Intramolecular Oxidoreductases / Q000097:blood* / Q000378:metabolism*; D054834:Lipocalins / Q000097:blood* / Q000378:metabolism*
D015415:Biomarkers; D055316:Cystatin C; D054834:Lipocalins; D019746:Intramolecular Oxidoreductases; C022466:prostaglandin R2 D-isomerase
Beta-trace protein; Creatinine; Cystatin C; Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)