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Background CD36 is a multi-functional class B scavenger receptor, which acts as an important modulator of lipid homeostasis and immune responses. Sources of data This review uses academic articles. Areas of agreement CD36 is closely related to the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Areas of controversy Both persistent up-regulation of CD36 and deficiency of CD36 increase the risk for atherosclerosis. Abnormally up-regulated CD36 promotes inflammation, foam cell formation, endothelial apoptosis, macrophage trapping and thrombosis. However, CD36 deficiency also causes dyslipidemia, subclinical inflammation and metabolic disorders, which are established risk factors for atherosclerosis. Growing points There may be an 'optimal protective window' of CD36 expression. Areas timely for developing research In addition to traditionally modulating protein functions using gene overexpression or deficiency, the modulation of CD36 function at post-translational levels has recently been suggested to be a potential therapeutic strategy.

Introduction Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This review covers the pillars of care essential for the management of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) including (1) early diagnosis, (2) improved glycaemic control, (3) treatment of hypertension, (4) identification and treatment of associated metabolic bone disease and (5) identification and effective management of dyslipidaemia and additional cardiovascular risk factors. Sources of data We searched PubMed for articles using search terms: diabetic nephropathy, diabetic kidney disease, diabetes and chronic kidney disease. We used clinical guidelines from NICE, the Association of British Clinical Diabetologists (ABCD), the Joint British Societies (JBS) and the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) working group. Areas of agreement Multiple risk factor reduction targeting glycaemic control, blood pressure control, dyslipidaemia, smoking and management of obesity is important in preventing and in managing DKD. Areas of controversy Guidelines disagree on the individualized glycaemic targets for patients with diabetic kidney disease. Growing points The growing number of patients with DKD is causing increased pressure on limited primary care and specialized services. New ways of managing patients using novel technology solutions are required. Areas timely for development The use of novel anti-hyperglycaemic agents, particularly sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists, has been associated with a reduction in cardiovascular disease and DKD.