Arterial Calcifications in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis Are Linked to Hepatic Deficiency of Pyrophosphate Production Restored by Liver Transplantation.

ABSTRACT: Liver fibrosis is associated with arterial calcification (AC). Since the liver is a source of inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi), an anti-calcifying compound, we investigated the relationship between plasma PPi ([PPi]pl), liver fibrosis, liver function, AC, and the hepatic expression of genes regulating PPi homeostasis. To that aim, we compared [PPi]pl before liver transplantation (LT) and 3 months after LT. We also assessed the expression of four key regulators of PPi in liver tissues and established correlations between AC, and scores of liver fibrosis and liver failure in these patients. LT candidates with various liver diseases were included. AC scores were assessed in coronary arteries, abdominal aorta, and aortic valves. Liver fibrosis was evaluated on liver biopsies and from non-invasive

SUBMITTER: Laurain A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9312703 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature