The American Journal of Nephrology is a peer-reviewed journal that focuses on timely topics in both basic science and clinical research. Papers are divided into several sections, including:

- Original reports, spanning clinical, basic and outcomes research
- In-depth topic reviews on specific topics selected by the Editor
and Associate Editors
- Invited debates – selected on ‘hot topics’ determined by the
editorial board

Responding to the ever-increasing pace in research, the American Journal of Nephrology adheres to a very tight publication schedule: accepted papers appear online within 5–6 weeks of acceptance.