Similar to the lung, where DICER1 is essential for the branching morphogenesis of the epithelium19,80,81, the loss of DICER1 expression in the developing kidney results in apoptosis in the progenitor nephron epithelium and premature termination of nephrogenesis and the development of renal cysts due to the apoptosis and loss of cell proliferation20,80,81. The gene discussed is DICER1; the disease is cystic kidney disease.