Methods are disclosed for fast and accurate readout of kidney toxicity
before it occurs and before it is demonstrated by histopathology
examination. Ultimately, this approach shall allow earlier compound
selection. The twelve genes identified, namely Calbindin-D28k, KIM-1,
OPN, EGF, Clusterin, VEGF, OAT-K1, Aldolase A, Aldolase B, Podocin,
Alpha-2u and C4, were grouped and ultimately can be assessed in the form
of a kit using PCR, a high throughput technology, in order to
characterize and rank new compounds according to their anticipated
general kidney toxicity. Also disclosed are methods for identifying
agents useful in the treatment of kidney disease, methods for monitoring
the efficacy of a treatment for kidney disease and kidney-specific
vectors including the sequences of the disclosed genes, and a method for
identifying a candidate gene associated with a biological process
including kidney function.