Reduced RTN3 expression is a potential risk factor for glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitium in the kidney because it promotes collagen synthesis and aggregation and impairs mitochondrial structure and function, partly through alteration of the localization of GPBP1 and activation of the IGF2-JAK2-STAT3 pathway. The gene discussed is GPBP1; the disease is glomerulosclerosis.