A multivariable stepwise linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the independent determinants of GFR using age, gender, prevalence of diabetes, ACE-I or ARB usage, BMI, 24-h mean systolic blood pressure, 24-h mean heart rate, LVMI, LAVI, E/A, deceleration time, IVRT, E/E′, lgNT-proBNP and lgUACR. The gene discussed is NPPB; the disease is diabetes mellitus.