Researchers used transcriptome-wide association studies and genomic analyses to nominate novel causal genes linked to diabetic nephropathy. Two independent reports (Ma et al. and collaborators) integrated GWAS and expression data to highlight gene candidates potentially driving kidney disease risk in diabetes. The studies were published in high-profile genomics outlets and used multi-cohort datasets. Authors provided mechanistic annotations and prioritized targets for functional follow-up; the results create a short list for target validation and potential therapeutic development. Translational researchers will evaluate whether any implicated genes are druggable or suitable for biomarker development.