Calcification in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Is Associated with Elevated GCLm and Impaired Contraction: Insights into Osteogenic Transdifferentiation and Therapeutic Approaches.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Vascular calcification is a strong predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Oxidative stress plays a key role in promoting vascular calcification. Glutathione (GSH), as a major cellular antioxidant, is produced in response to oxidative stress and is regulated by the enzyme glutamate-cysteine ligase (GCL). In this study, we examined the role of the GCL modifier subunit (GCLm) in regulating vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) calcification.

Methods

Human coronary artery VSMCs were exposed to phosphate-rich media to induce calcification.

Results

Calcification led to a decrease in the GSH:GSSG ratio (reduced glutathione to oxidized glutathione), and elevated GCLm expression, coincident with mobilization of osteogenic genes and loss of contractile phe

SUBMITTER: Delgadillo LF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12736360 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature