Abstract
Beta-Trace Protein (BTP), also known as lipocalin prostaglandin D2 synthase, is an emerging novel marker of the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR). It is synthesized by a wide variety of cell types and is an important constituent of cerebral spinal fluid. The origin of serum BTP remains unclear and the biologic roles of BTP are not fully understood yet. There is only one commercially available BTP assay and higher order reference materials have not been developed. Equations to translate serum BTP levels into estimates of GFR have been developed. Whether BTP provides an incremental benefit over serum creatinine in identifying chronic kidney disease, estimating GFR, or detecting changes in GFR remains unclear. This chapter will provide an overview of the biology of BTP, the analytical aspects of its measurement and the evidence for its utility at diagnosing and following chronic kidney disease.
Keywords: Beta-trace protein, glomerular filtration rate, transplantation