Logistic regression was used to examine cross-sectional associations of elevated serum aminotransferase levels with low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 based on cystatin C), and with high urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) (> 17 mg/g in men and > 25 mg/ g in women) in separate models adjusting for demographic characteristics and metabolic syndrome. The gene discussed is CST3; the disease is metabolic syndrome.