Update on pathogenesis, markers and management of diabetic nephropathy.

Experimental animal models and cell culture techniques, highlighting the central role of glucose metabolism, have provided important insight into the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. Microalbuminuria and other candidate phenotypic or genotypic markers for the early onset of disease are discussed. Management recommendations center around strict glycemic control and the normalization of blood pressure by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors.