In the univariate analysis, low BMI, longer DM duration, use of ACEi or ARB at the initial visit, higher HbA1c, lower baseline eGFR, higher baseline UACR, lower plasma hemoglobin, lower serum albumin, presence of DR, and presence of DR progression were all related to the CKD progression (Table 4, p<0.05). The gene discussed is ALB; the disease is chronic kidney disease.