Vitamin K preserves gamma-glutamyl carboxylase activity against carbamylations in uremia: Implications for vascular calcification and adjunct therapies.

ABSTRACT:

Aim

Vascular calcification contributes to morbidity and mortality in aging and is accelerated in diabetes and in chronic kidney disease. Matrix Gla Protein is a potent inhibitor of vascular calcification, which is activated by the vitamin K-dependent gamma-glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX). However, through a currently unidentified mechanism, the activity of GGCX is reduced in experimental uremia, thereby contributing to the promotion of vascular calcifications. In this study, we aim to identify the cause of these functional alterations and to stimulate the enzyme activity by potential GGCX binding compounds as a new avenue of therapy.

Methods

Two rodent models of experimental uremia and human carotid plaques were assessed for GGCX activity and modifications, as well as calcificat

SUBMITTER: Kaesler N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11979876 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature