Inbred mouse strains offer tractable models for discovery of genetic factors predisposing to complex traits because genetic and environmental factors can be rigorously controlled. We have used linkage and GWAS approaches in inbred strains to map and identify genes for glomerulosclerosis (scarring of the glomerulus, the “filter” of the kidney) in murine models of HIV Associated nephropathy, diabetic kidney disease (db/db mice), developmental disorders of the kidney and experimental Adriamycin nephropathy. Most recently, in GWAS of inbred strains, we identified a new gene for elevated bile acid levels and diet-induced metabolic phenotypes.