Genetic variants of the MIR31HG gene are related to a risk of IgA nephropathy

•Rs1332184 and rs55683539 in MIR31HG strongly related to an increased risk of IgAN.•Rs72703442, rs55683539, and rs10965064 strongly enhanced IgAN risk in age ≤ 35 years.•Rs1332184, rs55683539 and rs2181559 significantly increased IgAN risk in males.•Rs1332184 and rs55683539 correlated with IgAN risk stratified by Lee’s grade.•Rs72703442 and rs10965064 SNP related to clinical indicators such as HB and Urine RBC.