Magnesium to prevent kidney disease-associated vascular calcification: crystal clear?

The serum levels of gasdermin D in uremic patients and its relationship with the prognosis: a prospective observational cohort study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the serum levels of gasdermin D (GSDMD) in uremic (end-stage kidney disease, ESKD) patients and their correlation with vascular calcification (VC) and clinical results.

METHODS

This prospective observational cohort study enrolled 213 ESKD patients who were undergoing regular maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) for > 3 months in our hospital from August 2019 to July 2022. The abdominal aortic calcification score (AACS) was used to assess the VC condition of patients with ESKD. Serum GSDMD, caspase-1, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, IL-18 and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Demographic and clinical data were obtained. All patients were followed up for 1 year, and patients with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were defined as having a poor prognosis. All data used SPSS 26.0 to statistical analyses.

RESULTS

The serum total cholesterol (TC) levels of patients in the AACS > 4 group were significantly elevated compared with those in the AACS ≤ 4 group. In addition, ESKD patients with an AACS > 4 had significantly higher serum levels of GSDMD, caspase-1, IL-6, IL-18 and IL-1β. Moreover, Pearson's analysis supported a positive correlation between GSDMD and caspase-1, IL-6, and IL-1β. In addition, we found that GSDMD levels were positively correlated with the clinical data (AACS scores and serum TC levels) of patients with ERSD. Additionally, ROC curves showed that the serum levels of GSDMD could be a potential predictive biomarker of moderate/severe VC and prognosis in patients with ESKD. Finally, the results of logistic regression indicated that GSDMD and AACS scores were risk factors for poor prognosis in patients with ESKD.

CONCLUSION

Serum GSDMD levels were remarkably elevated in patients with ESKD with moderate/severe calcification. In addition, serum levels of GSDMD could be a potential predictive biomarker of moderate/severe VC and prognosis in patients with ESKD.

The impact of low and high dialysate calcium concentrations on cardiovascular disease and death in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The optimal dialysate calcium (Ca) concentration for patients undergoing hemodialysis remains inconclusive, particularly concerning cardiovascular protection.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of 19 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and a meta-analysis of eight RCTs to determine the optimal dialysate Ca concentration for cardiovascular protection. We compared outcomes in patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis treated with either a low-Ca dialysate (LCD) (1.125 or 1.25 mmol/L) or a high-Ca dialysate (HCD) (1.5 or 1.75 mmol/L). The outcomes were coronary artery calcification score (CACS), all-cause and cardiovascular death, cardiovascular function and structure, and serum biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between LCD and HCD concerning CACS (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [-0.38, 0.07]), the risk of all-cause death, and cardiovascular death in patients treated with chronic maintenance hemodialysis. Conversely, LCD was associated with a significantly lower intima-media thickness (SMD = -0.49, 95% CI [-0.94, -0.05]) and pulse wave velocity than HCD (SMD = -0.86, 95% CI [-1.21, -0.51]). Furthermore, LCD significantly decreased serum Ca levels (mean difference [MD] = 0.52 mg/dL, 95% CI [0.19, 0.85]) and increased serum parathyroid hormone levels (MD = 44.8 pg/mL, 95% CI [16.2, 73.3]) compared with HCD. Notably, most RCTs examined in our analysis did not include patients receiving calcimimetics.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis showed no significant differences in cardiovascular calcification and death between LCD and HCD and revealed a paucity of RCTs on dialysate Ca concentrations, including those involving patients on calcimimetics, indicating the urgent need for further studies.

Association of serum magnesium with metabolic syndrome and the role of chronic kidney disease: A population-based cohort study with Mendelian randomization

OBJECTIVES

To assess the association of serum magnesium with prevalent and incident metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its individual components in the general population and to examine any effect modification by chronic kidney disease (CKD) status.

METHODS

We analysed longitudinal data from the population-based KORA F4/FF4 study, including 2996 participants (387 with CKD) for cross-sectional analysis and 1446 participants (88 with CKD) for longitudinal analysis. Associations with MetS, as well as single components of MetS, were assessed by adjusted regression models. Nonlinearity was tested by restricted cubic splines and analyses were stratified by CKD. Causality was evaluated by two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR).

RESULTS

Serum magnesium (1 SD) was inversely associated with prevalent MetS (odds ratio [OR] 0.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.83, 0.98). The association was more pronounced in individuals with CKD (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.59, 0.94). Among MetS components, serum magnesium was negatively associated with elevated fasting glucose (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.71, 0.88) and, again, this association was more pronounced in individuals with CKD (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.53, 0.84). Serum magnesium was not associated with incident MetS or its components. Restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a significant nonlinear inverse relationship of serum magnesium with MetS and elevated fasting glucose. MR analysis suggested an inverse causal effect of serum magnesium on MetS (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.85, 0.97).

CONCLUSION

Serum magnesium is associated with prevalent, but not incident MetS, and this effect is stronger in individuals with CKD. MR analysis implies a potential, albeit weak, causal role of magnesium in MetS.

Association between dietary folate intake and severe abdominal aorta calcification in adults: A cross-sectional analysis of the national health and nutrition examination survey

BACKGROUND

Prior studies have established a connection between folate intake and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) has been introduced as a good predictor of CVD events, but no previous study has investigated the relationship between dietary folate intake and severe AAC. Therefore, the study aims to explore the association between dietary folate intake and severe AAC in the United States (US) middle-aged and elderly population.

METHODS

This study employed cross-sectional data from the 2013-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to examine the relationship between dietary folate intake and severe AAC. Two 24-h dietary recall interviews were conducted to assess dietary folate intake and its sources, while a DXA scan was used to determine the AAC score. To analyze the association between dietary folate intake and severe AAC, a multivariable logistic regression model was applied, and a subgroup analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Our analysis utilized data from 2640 participants aged 40 years and above, including 288 individuals diagnosed with severe AAC. After adjusting for confounding factors, we observed an inverted L-shaped association between folate intake and severe AAC. Upon further adjustment for specific confounding factors and covariates, the multivariable-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the second, third, and fourth quartiles of folate intake, using the first quartile as the reference, were as follows: 1.24 (0.86-1.79), 0.86 (0.58-1.27), and 0.63 (0.41-0.97), respectively. Subgroup analysis results were consistent with the logistic regression models, indicating concordant findings. Moreover, no significant interaction was observed in the subgroup analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings suggest an inverted L-shaped association between dietary folate intake and severe AAC. However, additional prospective investigations are necessary to explore the impact of dietary folate intake on severe AAC in patients.

Magnesium and Vascular Calcification in Chronic Kidney Disease: Current Insights

Magnesium (Mg) plays crucial roles in multiple essential biological processes. As the kidneys are the primary organ responsible for maintaining the blood concentration of Mg, people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) may develop disturbances in Mg. While both hyper- and hypomagnesemia may lead to adverse effects, the consequences associated with hypomagnesemia are often more severe and lasting. Importantly, observational studies have shown that CKD patients with hypomagnesemia have greater vascular calcification. Vascular calcification is accelerated and contributes to a high mortality rate in the CKD population. Both in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that Mg protects against vascular calcification via several potential mechanisms, such as inhibiting the formation of both hydroxyapatite and pathogenic calciprotein particles as well as limiting osteogenic differentiation, a process in which vascular smooth muscle cells in the media layer of the arteries transform into bone-like cells. These preclinical findings have led to several important clinical trials that have investigated the effects of Mg supplementation on vascular calcification in people with CKD. Interestingly, two major clinical studies produced contradictory findings, resulting in a state of equipoise. This narrative review provides an overview of our current knowledge in the renal handling of Mg in health and CKD and the underlying mechanisms by which Mg may protect against vascular calcification. Lastly, we evaluate the strength of evidence from clinical studies on the efficacy of Mg supplementation and discuss future research directions.

Peritoneal dialysis fluids

There have been significant advances in the understanding of peritoneal dialysis (PD) in the last 40 years, and uptake of PD as a modality of kidney replacement therapy is increasing worldwide. PD fluids, therefore, remains the lifeline for patients on this treatment. Developing these fluids to be efficacious in solute clearance and ultrafiltration, with minimal adverse consequences to peritoneal membrane health and systemic effects is a key requirement. Since the first PD fluid produced in 1959, modifications to PD fluids have been made. Nonetheless, the search for that ideal PD fluid remains elusive. Understanding the components of PD fluids is a key aspect of optimizing the successful delivery of PD, allowing for individualized PD prescription. Glucose remains an integral component of PD fluids; however, its deleterious effects continue to be the impetus for the search of an alternative osmotic agent, and icodextrin remains the main alternative. More biocompatible PD fluids have been developed and have shown benefits in preserving residual kidney function. However, high cost and reduced accessibility remain deterrents to its widespread clinical use in many countries. Large-scale clinical trials are necessary and very much awaited to improve the narrow spectrum of PD fluids available for clinical use.

Regulatory effects of nutritional and metabolic disorders on vascular calcification in chronic kidney disease: a narrative review

Background and Objective

Vascular calcification (VC) is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and is associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes. This study aims to review nutritive pro-calcifying factors of CKD.

Methods

Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) were searched from 2001 as at July 26, 2022, to select and summarize the basic and clinical studies reporting the effects of malnutrition or metabolic disorders on VC in CKD and the evolving treatments for these nutrient metabolic disorders.

Key Content and Findings

Hyperphosphatemia, calcium load, hypomagnesemia, iron deficiency, lipoprotein(a) abnormalities, protein malnutrition, and vitamin K deficiency secondary to CKD were closely associated with the occurrence and development of VC. Elevated phosphate and calcium levels were essential contributors to VC, yet current phosphate binders with good phosphate-lowering effects had not been shown to delay VC progression in CKD, and it remained challenging on how to identify and prevent calcium overload. Magnesium supplementation was the most promising treatment for mitigating VC, as supported by in vitro and in vivo studies and clinical trials. Correction of iron and vitamin K deficiency might contribute to VC attenuation, yet there was a lack of clinical evidence on CKD patients.

Conclusions

This review highlighted the effects of nutrient metabolism disorders on CKD-VC, and additional studies are needed to further address optimal nutrition strategies for mitigating VC in CKD.

Medial Sclerosis-Epidemiology and Clinical Significance

BACKGROUND

Medial sclerosis (MeS) is a chronic systemic vascular disease that mainly affects the arteries of the lower limb. Its prevalence in the general population is approximately 2.5% (range: 1.6% to 10.0%). It is more common in men than in women.

METHODS

This review is based on pertinent publications retrieved by a selective search in PubMed.

RESULTS

MeS is the final common pathway of a wide variety of diseases; its pathogenesis is not fully understood. It often remains clinically silent for decades and is usually diagnosed as an incidental finding or in a late stage. MeS with or without atherosclerosis is the most common histologic finding after limb amputation. MeS of the below-the-knee arteries is a major risk factor for chronic critical leg ischemia (OR:13.25, 95% confidence interval: [1.69; 104.16]) and amputation (RR 2.27, [1.89; 2.74]). Patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease and marked calcification have a much higher risk of amputation (OR 2.88, [1.18; 12.72]) and a higher mortality (OR 5.16, [1.13; 21.61]). MeS is a risk factor for the failure of endovascular treatment of the pedal arteries (OR 4.0, [1.1; 16.6]). The more marked the calcification, the higher the risk of major amputation (HR 10.6 [1.4; 80.7] to HR 15.5 [2.0; 119]). Patients with vascular calcifications have been found to have lower patency rates and higher treatment failure rates two years after open surgical revascularization of the below-the-knee arteries. No pharmacotherapy for MeS is available to date.

CONCLUSION

MeS is an important risk factor for chronic critical lower limb ischemia, amputation, morbidity, and complications, particularly after endovascular and surgical procedures.

Pathophysiology and Clinical Impacts of Chronic Kidney Disease on Coronary Artery Calcification

The global prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has increased in recent years. Adverse cardiovascular events have become the main cause of life-threatening events in patients with CKD, and vascular calcification is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Vascular calcification, especially coronary artery calcification, is more prevalent, severe, rapidly progressive, and harmful in patients with CKD. Some features and risk factors are unique to vascular calcification in patients with CKD; the formation of vascular calcification is not only influenced by the phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells, but also by electrolyte and endocrine dysfunction, uremic toxin accumulation, and other novel factors. The study on the mechanism of vascular calcification in patients with renal insufficiency can provide a basis and new target for the prevention and treatment of this disease. This review aims to illustrate the impact of CKD on vascular calcification and to discuss the recent research data on the pathogenesis and factors involved in vascular calcification, mainly focusing on coronary artery calcification, in patients with CKD.

The Effect of Magnesium Supplementation on Vascular Calcification in CKD: A Randomized Clinical Trial (MAGiCAL-CKD)

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Magnesium prevents vascular calcification in animals with CKD. In addition, lower serum magnesium is associated with higher risk of cardiovascular events in CKD. In a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, the authors investigated the effects of magnesium supplementation versus placebo on vascular calcification in patients with predialysis CKD. Despite significant increases in plasma magnesium among study participants who received magnesium compared with those who received placebo, magnesium supplementation did not slow the progression of vascular calcification in study participants. In addition, the findings showed a higher incidence of serious adverse events in the group treated with magnesium. Magnesium supplementation alone was not sufficient to delay progression of vascular calcification, and other therapeutic strategies might be necessary to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in CKD.

BACKGROUND

Elevated levels of serum magnesium are associated with lower risk of cardiovascular events in patients with CKD. Magnesium also prevents vascular calcification in animal models of CKD.

METHODS

To investigate whether oral magnesium supplementation would slow the progression of vascular calcification in CKD, we conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, clinical trial. We enrolled 148 subjects with an eGFR between 15 and 45 ml/min and randomly assigned them to receive oral magnesium hydroxide 15 mmol twice daily or matching placebo for 12 months. The primary end point was the between-groups difference in coronary artery calcification (CAC) score after 12 months adjusted for baseline CAC score, age, and diabetes mellitus.

RESULTS

A total of 75 subjects received magnesium and 73 received placebo. Median eGFR was 25 ml/min at baseline, and median baseline CAC scores were 413 and 274 in the magnesium and placebo groups, respectively. Despite plasma magnesium increasing significantly during the trial in the magnesium group, the baseline-adjusted CAC scores did not differ significantly between the two groups after 12 months. Prespecified subgroup analyses according to CAC>0 at baseline, diabetes mellitus, or tertiles of serum calcification propensity did not significantly alter the main results. Among subjects who experienced gastrointestinal adverse effects, 35 were in the group receiving magnesium treatment versus nine in the placebo group. Five deaths and six cardiovascular events occurred in the magnesium group compared with two deaths and no cardiovascular events in the placebo group.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnesium supplementation for 12 months did not slow the progression of vascular calcification in CKD, despite a significant increase in plasma magnesium.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

www.clinicaltrials.gov ( NCT02542319 ).

Cardiovascular Calcification Heterogeneity in Chronic Kidney Disease

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) exhibit tremendously elevated risk for cardiovascular disease, particularly ischemic heart disease, due to premature vascular and cardiac aging and accelerated ectopic calcification. The presence of cardiovascular calcification associates with increased risk in patients with CKD. Disturbed mineral homeostasis and diverse comorbidities in these patients drive increased systemic cardiovascular calcification in different manifestations with diverse clinical consequences, like plaque instability, vessel stiffening, and aortic stenosis. This review outlines the heterogeneity in calcification patterning, including mineral type and location and potential implications on clinical outcomes. The advent of therapeutics currently in clinical trials may reduce CKD-associated morbidity. Development of therapeutics for cardiovascular calcification begins with the premise that less mineral is better. While restoring diseased tissues to a noncalcified homeostasis remains the ultimate goal, in some cases, calcific mineral may play a protective role, such as in atherosclerotic plaques. Therefore, developing treatments for ectopic calcification may require a nuanced approach that considers individual patient risk factors. Here, we discuss the most common cardiac and vascular calcification pathologies observed in CKD, how mineral in these tissues affects function, and the potential outcomes and considerations for therapeutic strategies that seek to disrupt the nucleation and growth of mineral. Finally, we discuss future patient-specific considerations for treating cardiac and vascular calcification in patients with CKD-a population in need of anticalcification therapies.

Lower serum magnesium is a predictor of left ventricular hypertrophy in patients on dialysis

PURPOSE

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) represents one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular mortality in dialysis patients. Low serum magnesium Mg is related with increased mortality in general and dialysis population. Aim of our study was to evaluate the association of Mg with LVH and cardiac geometry in dialysis patients.

METHODS

Hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients from nine nephrology departments were included. Echocardiographic LVH was defined by LV mass index > 95 g/m² in women and > 115 g/m² in men. Four LV geometric patterns were defined: normal, concentric remodeling, eccentric LVH and concentric LVH. Demographic and laboratory data were collected.

RESULTS

133 patients (68 HD, 65 PD) with a median age of 63 years (IQR 52-74) were studied. Mg correlated positively with creatinine, HDL and negatively with CRP levels and BMI. There were no significant differences in Mg between the modality groups. 80 patients presented LVH (43 HD and 37 PD patients). Patients with LVH were older (median age 68 vs 55 years, p < 0.001), with higher BMI (median 26.9 vs 24.7 kg/m², p = 0.009), had a history of PVD or CAD (55% vs 30.2%, p = 0.003), had higher pulse pressure (median 60 vs 50, p = 0.017), MIS score (median 5 vs 4, p = 0.011), lower albumin (median 3.5 vs 3.8 g/dl, p = 0.011) and Mg levels (median 2.1 vs 2.4 mg/dl, p < 0.001). In univariate analysis age, CVD comorbidities, pulse pressure, CRP, BMI, albumin, Mg, MIS and use of b-blockers or calcium blockers were LVH predictors. In multivariate analysis, Mg was an independent predictor of LVH, adjusted for age, MIS and b-blockers. Considering LV geometry, lower Mg levels were mainly correlated with concentric LVH.

CONCLUSION

Low serum magnesium levels seem to be an independent factor for LVH in hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients.

Vascular calcification: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic interventions

Vascular calcification (VC) is recognized as a pathological vascular disorder associated with various diseases, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, aortic valve stenosis, coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus, as well as chronic kidney disease. Therefore, it is a life-threatening state for human health. There were several studies targeting mechanisms of VC that revealed the importance of vascular smooth muscle cells transdifferentiating, phosphorous and calcium milieu, as well as matrix vesicles on the progress of VC. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of VC need to be elucidated. Though there is no acknowledged effective therapeutic strategy to reverse or cure VC clinically, recent evidence has proved that VC is not a passive irreversible comorbidity but an active process regulated by many factors. Some available approaches targeting the underlying molecular mechanism provide promising prospects for the therapy of VC. This review aims to summarize the novel findings on molecular mechanisms and therapeutic interventions of VC, including the role of inflammatory responses, endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, iron homeostasis, metabolic imbalance, and some related signaling pathways on VC progression. We also conclude some recent studies on controversial interventions in the clinical practice of VC, such as calcium channel blockers, renin-angiotensin system inhibitions, statins, bisphosphonates, denosumab, vitamins, and ion conditioning agents.

Hypomagnesemia and Cardiovascular Risk in Type 2 Diabetes

Hypomagnesemia is tenfold more common in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D), compared to the healthy population. Factors that are involved in this high prevalence are low Mg2+ intake, gut microbiome composition, medication use and presumably genetics. Hypomagnesemia is associated with insulin resistance, which subsequently increases the risk to develop T2D or deteriorates glycaemic control in existing diabetes. Mg2+ supplementation decreases T2D associated features like dyslipidaemia and inflammation; which are important risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Epidemiological studies have shown an inverse association between serum Mg2+ and the risk to develop heart failure (HF), atrial fibrillation (AF) and microvascular disease in T2D. The potential protective effect of Mg2+ on HF and AF may be explained by reduced oxidative stress, fibrosis and electrical remodeling in the heart. In microvascular disease, Mg2+ reduces the detrimental effects of hyperglycemia and improves endothelial dysfunction. Though, clinical studies assessing the effect of long-term Mg2+ supplementation on CVD incidents are lacking and gaps remain on how Mg2+ may reduce CVD risk in T2D. Despite the high prevalence of hypomagnesemia in people with T2D, routine screening of Mg2+ deficiency to provide Mg2+ supplementation when needed is not implemented in clinical care as sufficient clinical evidence is lacking. In conclusion, hypomagnesemia is common in people with T2D and is both involved as cause, probably through molecular mechanisms leading to insulin resistance, and consequence and is prospectively associated with development of HF, AF and microvascular complications. Whether long-term supplementation of Mg2+ is beneficial, however, remains to be determined.

The Usefulness of Calcium/Magnesium Ratio in the Risk Stratification of Early Onset of Renal Replacement Therapy

Background: A growing number of studies have reported a close relationship between high serum calcium (Ca)/low serum magnesium (Mg) and vascular calcification. Endothelial dysfunction and vascular inflammation seem plausible risk factors for the enhanced progression of kidney disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of the Ca/Mg ratio as a predictor of the early onset of renal replacement therapy (RRT). Methods: This was a prospective study conducted in an outpatient low-clearance nephrology clinic, enrolling 693 patients with stages 4−5 of CKD. Patients were divided into two groups according to the start of renal replacement therapy (RRT). Results: The kidney’s survival at 120 months was 60% for a Ca−Mg ratio < 6 and 40% for a Ca−Mg ratio ≥ 6 (p = 0.000). Patients who started RRT had lower levels of Hb, Ca, Mg, albumin, and cholesterol and higher values of phosphorus, the Ca/Mg ratio, and PTH. High values of phosphorus and the Ca/Mg ratio and low levels of Mg and GFR were independent predictors of entry into RRT. A high Ca/Mg ratio, high phosphorus levels, and low levels of GFR were associated with a cumulative risk for initiation of RRT. Conclusions: In our population, the Ca/Mg ratio is an independent predictive factor for the initiation of a depurative technique.

Magnesium—A More Important Role in CKD–MBD than We Thought

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with different complications, including chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD–MBD), which represents a systemic disorder that involves the presence of different mineral or bone structure abnormalities (i.e., modification of bone turnover, strength, volume, etc.), including even vascular calcification development. Even if, over the years, different pathophysiological theories have been developed to explain the onset and progression of CKD–MBD, the influence and importance of serum magnesium level on the evolution of CKD have only recently been highlighted. So far, data are inconclusive and conflicting; therefore, further studies are necessary to validate these findings, which could be useful in developing a better, more adequate, and personalized management of CKD patients.

Gla-Rich Protein, Magnesium and Phosphate Associate with Mitral and Aortic Valves Calcification in Diabetic Patients with Moderate CKD

Accelerated and premature cardiovascular calcification is a hallmark of chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Valvular calcification (VC) is a critical indicator of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality in this population, lacking validated biomarkers for early diagnosis. Gla-rich protein (GRP) is a cardiovascular calcification inhibitor recently associated with vascular calcification, pulse pressure, mineral metabolism markers and kidney function. Here, we examined the association between GRP serum levels and mitral and aortic valves calcification in a cohort of 80 diabetic patients with CKD stages 2–4. Mitral and aortic valves calcification were detected in 36.2% and 34.4% of the patients and associated with lower GRP levels, even after adjustments for age and gender. In this pilot study, univariate, multivariate and Poisson regression analysis, show that low levels of GRP and magnesium (Mg), and high levels of phosphate (P) are associated with mitral and aortic valves calcification. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed that the area under the curve (AUC) values of GRP for mitral (0.762) and aortic (0.802) valves calcification were higher than those of Mg and P. These results suggest that low levels of GRP and Mg, and high levels of P, are independent and cumulative risk factors for VC in this population; the GRP diagnostic value might be potentially useful in cardiovascular risk assessment.

Serum Calcification Propensity and Calcification of the Abdominal Aorta in Patients With Primary Aldosteronism

Patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) are more susceptible to cardiovascular disease and mortality than patients with primary hypertension. This is mostly attributed to excess production of aldosterone and its effects on the development of vascular injury. A novel functional test (T₅₀) measures serum calcification propensity. Lower T₅₀-values predict higher cardiovascular risk. We investigated serum calcification propensity and vascular calcification in PA and resistant hypertension (RH). T₅₀ measurement was performed in patients with PA (n = 66) and RH (n = 28) at baseline and after 403 (279–640) and 389 (277–527) days of treatment. No significant differences in T₅₀-values were observed between the groups (371 ± 65 and 382 ± 44 min, in PA and RH group, respectively, p > 0.05). However, higher aldosterone-to-renin ratios were associated with lower T₅₀-values in PA-patients (r −0.282, p < 0.05). Furthermore, lower T₅₀-values were associated with increased abdominal aortic calcification measured by Agatston score in PA (r −0.534, p < 0.05). In both, PA and RH, higher atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACSVD) scores (r −0.403, p < 0.05) and lower HDL (r 0.469, p < 0.05) was related to lower T₅₀-values in a linear regression model. Adrenalectomy or medical treatment did not increase T₅₀-values. In comparison to patients with stable T₅₀-values, PA patients with a decrease in T₅₀ after intervention had higher serum calcium concentrations at baseline (2.24 ± 0.11 vs. 2.37 ± 0.10 mmol/l, p < 0.05). This decline of T₅₀-values at follow-up was also associated with a decrease in serum magnesium (−0.03 ± 0.03 mmol/l, p < 0.05) and an increase in phosphate concentrations (0.11 ± 0.11 mmol/l, p < 0.05). Resistant hypertension patients with a decrease in T₅₀-values at follow-up had a significantly lower eGFR at baseline. In summary, these data demonstrate an association between a high aldosterone-to-renin ratio and low T₅₀-values in PA. Moreover, lower T₅₀-values are associated with higher ACSVD scores and more pronounced vascular calcification in PA. Thus, serum calcification propensity may be a novel modifiable risk factor in PA.

Diurnal variation of magnesium and the mineral metabolism in patients with chronic kidney disease

Increasing levels of magnesium in blood are associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Magnesium supplementation may reduce the progression of vascular calcification in CKD. The diurnal pattern and effect of fasting on magnesium in blood and urine in CKD is unknown, and knowledge of this may influence management of magnesium supplementation. We included ten patients with CKD stage four without diabetes mellitus and ten healthy controls. Participants were admitted to our hospital ward for a 24-h study period. Blood and urine samples were collected in a non-fasting state at 8 o'clock in the morning and every third hour hereafter until the final samples in a fasting state at 8 o'clock the following morning. We found no diurnal variation in plasma magnesium (p = 0.097) in either group, but a significant diurnal variation in urinary excretion of magnesium (p = 0.044) in both CKD and healthy controls with no significant interaction between the two groups, and thus no suggestion that CKD affects diurnal variation of plasma magnesium or urinary magnesium excretion. The levels of plasma magnesium were not significantly different in fasting and non-fasting conditions. Magnesium in plasma does not display a significant diurnal variation and can be measured at any time of day and in both fasting and non-fasting conditions. Urinary magnesium excretion displays diurnal variation, which is likely related to increased uptake of magnesium during meals and helps maintain a stable concentration of magnesium in blood.

A Role for SGLT-2 Inhibitors in Treating Non-diabetic Chronic Kidney Disease

In recent years, inhibitors of the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2 inhibitors) have been shown to have significant protective effects on the kidney and the cardiovascular system in patients with diabetes. This effect is also manifested in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and is minimally due to improved glycaemic control. Starting from these positive findings, SGLT2 inhibitors have also been tested in patients with non-diabetic CKD or heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Recently, the DAPA-CKD trial showed a significantly lower risk of CKD progression or death from renal or cardiovascular causes in a mixed population of patients with diabetic and non-diabetic CKD receiving dapagliflozin in comparison with placebo. In patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction, two trials (EMPEROR-Reduced and DAPA-HF) also found a significantly lower risk of reaching the secondary renal endpoint in those treated with an SGLT2 inhibitor in comparison with placebo. This also applied to patients with CKD. Apart from their direct mechanism of action, SGLT2 inhibitors have additional effects that could be of particular interest for patients with non-diabetic CKD. Among these, SGLT2 inhibitors reduce blood pressure and serum acid uric levels and can increase hemoglobin levels. Some safety issues should be further explored in the CKD population. SGLT2 inhibitors can minimally increase potassium levels, but this has not been shown by the CREDENCE trial. They also increase magnesium and phosphate reabsorption. These effects could become more significant in patients with advanced CKD and will need monitoring when these agents are used more extensively in the CKD population. Conversely, they do not seem to increase the risk of acute kidney injury.

The Emerging Role of Nutraceuticals in Cardiovascular Calcification: Evidence from Preclinical and Clinical Studies

Cardiovascular calcification is the ectopic deposition of calcium-phosphate crystals within the arterial wall and the aortic valve leaflets. This pathological process leads to increased vascular stiffness, reduced arterial elasticity, and aortic valve stenosis, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Although cardiovascular calcification is an increasing health care burden, to date no medical therapies have been approved for treating or preventing it. Considering the current lack of therapeutic strategies and the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular calcification, the investigation of some nutraceuticals to prevent this pathological condition has become prevalent in recent years. Recent preclinical and clinical studies evaluated the potential anti-calcific role of nutraceuticals (including magnesium, zinc, iron, vitamin K, and phytate) in the progression of vascular calcification, providing evidence for their dietary supplementation, especially in high-risk populations. The present review summarizes the current knowledge and latest advances for nutraceuticals with the most relevant preclinical and clinical data, including magnesium, zinc, iron, vitamin K, and phytate. Their supplementation might be recommended as a cost-effective strategy to avoid nutritional deficiency and to prevent or treat cardiovascular calcification. However, the optimal dose of nutraceuticals has not been identified and large interventional trials are warranted to support their protective effects on cardiovascular disease.

Low plasma magnesium concentration and future abdominal aortic calcifications in moderate chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Higher plasma magnesium concentrations are associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. The importance of plasma magnesium concentration for vascular calcification in earlier stages of CKD remains underexplored. This study investigated whether plasma magnesium is a determinant for the presence and severity of vascular calcification in moderate CKD.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was performed using abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) scores in 280 patients with stage 3 and 4 CKD enrolled in the MASTERPLAN trial. Lateral abdominal X-ray was used to evaluate AAC. Plasma magnesium concentration were measured over time. A zero-inflated Poisson model determined the association between plasma magnesium concentration and AAC.

RESULTS

79 out of 280 patients did not have AAC, and in patients with AAC the median calcification score was 3.5 (interquartile range: 0.0-8.6). The mean plasma magnesium concentration was 0.76 ± 0.10 mmol/L at baseline. A 0.1 mmol/L higher plasma magnesium concentration was associated with lower AAC of 0.07 point (95% CI -0.28 - 0.14). A 0.1 mmol/L higher plasma magnesium lowered the odds of detecting any AAC by 30% (OR = 0.63; 95% CI 0.29-1.37). After 1 year and 4 years (at time of X-ray) of follow-up this association was attenuated (OR = 0.93; 95% CI 0.61-1.43 and 0.93; 95% CI 0.60-1.45, respectively). None of these associations reached statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma magnesium concentration at baseline is not associated with the risk for future AAC. Interventions increasing magnesium to avoid vascular calcification may have greatest potential in early CKD stages prior to onset of vascular calcification.