LCN2 and acute kidney injury: This review aims to provide an in-depth overview of the available research findings of NGAL in the management of AKI and PDRP, having these two conditions discussed together is particularly important for nephrologists who manage both conditions, especially to explore the potential of more specific NGAL forms, such as monomer NGAL and homodimer NGAL, to enhance early diagnosis and effective management of AKI and PDRP.