Abstract
Over a century ago it was recognized that the vessel wall is a predominant site for ectopic calcification which is a hallmark of clinically significant atherosclerotic lesions. Old observational studies, which characterized vascular calcification as osteogenesis, and recent identification of common molecular mechanisms in bone and vascular calcification have led to the new recognition that atherosclerotic calcification is an actively regulated process similar to osteogenesis and distinct from a metastatic passive mineralization. Since the atherosclerotic lesion is composed of a multitude of cells and inflammatory mediators, elucidation of the role of these components in induction and acceleration of calcification is of fundamental importance in better understanding its pathogenesis and identifying possible interventional targets. This article will focus on four important mediators of vascular calcification: 1) calcifying vascular cells, 2) oxidized lipids, 3) cytokines, and 4) leptin.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
