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

Nadine Kaesler, Suresh Kaushik, Janina Frisch, Susanne Ziegler, Jochen Grommes, Alexander Gombert, Leticia Prates Roma, Christoph Kuppe, Joachim Jankowski, Jürgen Floege, Sofia de la Puente-Secades, Rafael Kramann, Vera Jankowski

Medical Clinic II, University Hospital of the RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

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.

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Research summary

The paper claims that vitamin K can preserve gamma-glutamyl carboxylase activity in uremia, potentially reducing vascular calcification. The study addresses a mechanism related to vascular calcification, which is a significant concern in aging and chronic diseases, suggesting a pathway that could influence longevity.

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