Ectopic Calcification Of Soft Tissues Research Articles

Clinical and imaging features of a feline lumbar myelopathy resembling ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament in humans

AbstractA 9‐year‐old, male, neutered Russian blue cat was presented for a 2‐week history of pelvic limb weakness and reluctance to jump and climb stairs. Neurological examination was consistent with an L4–L6 myelopathy. Ectopic calcification of soft tissues within the vertebral canal involving the dorsal longitudinal ligament over the L5–L6 vertebrae was diagnosed based on radiography, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. The lesion was surgically excised, and histopathological examination demonstrated fibrous connective tissue with calcification. The patient was neurologically normal 2 months after surgery, and no relapses have occurred in a follow‐up period of 2 years. The findings in this case had not been previously reported in cats, and share some similarities with a clinical entity in humans named ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament.

Anticalcification effects of DS-1211 in pseudoxanthoma elasticum mouse models and the role of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase in ABCC6-deficient ectopic calcification

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a multisystem, genetic, ectopic mineralization disorder with no effective treatment. Inhibition of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) may prevent ectopic soft tissue calcification by increasing endogenous pyrophosphate (PPi). This study evaluated the anticalcification effects of DS-1211, an orally administered, potent, and highly selective small molecule TNAP inhibitor, in mouse models of PXE. Calcium content in vibrissae was measured in KK/HlJ and ABCC6-/- mice after DS-1211 administration for 13–14 weeks. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of DS-1211 were evaluated, including plasma alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and biomarker changes in PPi and pyridoxal-phosphate (PLP). Anticalcification effects of DS-1211 through TNAP inhibition were further evaluated in ABCC6-/- mice with genetically reduced TNAP activity, ABCC6-/-/TNAP+/+ and ABCC6-/-/TNAP+/-. In KK/HlJ and ABCC6-/- mouse models, DS-1211 inhibited plasma ALP activity in a dose-dependent manner and prevented progression of ectopic calcification compared with vehicle-treated mice. Plasma PPi and PLP increased dose-dependently with DS-1211 in ABCC6-/- mice. Mice with ABCC6-/-/TNAP+/- phenotype had significantly less calcification and higher plasma PPi and PLP than ABCC6-/-/TNAP+/+ mice. TNAP plays an active role in pathomechanistic pathways of dysregulated calcification, demonstrated by reduced ectopic calcification in mice with lower TNAP activity. DS-1211 may be a potential therapeutic drug for PXE.

Various vascular malformations are prevalent in Finnish pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) patients: a national registry study

BackgroundPseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE, OMIM# 264800) is an inborn error of metabolism causing ectopic soft tissue calcification due to low plasma pyrophosphate concentration. We aimed to assess the prevalence of PXE in Finland and to characterize the Finnish PXE population. A nationwide registry search was performed to identify patients with ICD-10 code Q82.84. Information was gathered from available medical records which were requisitioned from hospitals and health centers. Misdiagnosed patients and patients with insufficient records were excluded.ResultsThe prevalence of PXE in Finland was 1:260,000 with equal sex distribution. Patients with high conventional cardiovascular risk had more visual and vascular complications than patients with low risk. Four patients (19%) had at least one vascular malformation. A high proportion (33%) of ABCC6 genotypes were of the common homozygous c.3421C > T, p.Arg1141Ter variant. Nine other homozygous or compound heterozygous allelic variants were found.ConclusionsThe prevalence of diagnosed PXE appears to be lower in Finland than in estimates from other countries. Decreased visual acuity is the most prevalent complication. We suggest that various vascular malformations may be an unrecognized feature of PXE.

Aberrant RhoA activation in macrophages increases senescence-associated secretory phenotypes and ectopic calcification in muscular dystrophic mice.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) patients often suffer from both muscle wasting and osteoporosis. Our previous studies have revealed reduced regeneration potential in skeletal muscle and bone, concomitant with ectopic calcification of soft tissues in double knockout (dKO, dystrophin-/-; utrophin-/-) mice, a severe murine model for DMD. We found significant involvement of RhoA/ROCK (Rho-Associated Protein Kinase) signaling in mediating ectopic calcification of muscles in dKO mice. However, the cellular identity of these RhoA+ cells, and the role that RhoA plays in the chronic inflammation-associated pathologies has not been elucidated. Here, we report that CD68+ macrophages are highly prevalent at the sites of ectopic calcification of dKO mice, and that these macrophages highly express RhoA. Macrophages from dKO mice feature a shift towards a more pro-inflammatory M1 polarization and an increased expression of various senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors that was reduced with the RhoA/ROCK inhibitor Y-27632. Further, systemic inhibition of RhoA activity in dKO mice led to reduced number of RhoA+/CD68+ cells, as well as a reduction in fibrosis and ectopic calcification. Together, these data revealed that RhoA signaling may be a key regulator of imbalanced mineralization in the dystrophic musculoskeletal system and consequently a therapeutic target for the treatment of DMD or other related muscle dystrophies.

In Vitro and In Vivo Pharmacological Profiles of DS-1211, a Novel Potent, Selective, and Orally Bioavailable Tissue-Nonspecific Alkaline Phosphatase Inhibitor.

Inhibition of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) may prevent ectopic soft tissue calcification by increasing endogenous pyrophosphate (PPi). DS-1211 is a potent and selective novel small molecule TNAP inhibitor with well-characterized pharmacokinetics (PKs) in rodent and monkey. Herein, we report a comprehensive summary of studies establishing the pharmaceutical profile of DS-1211. In vitro studies characterized the mode of inhibition and inhibitory effects of DS-1211 on three human alkaline phosphatase (ALP) isozymes-TNAP, human intestinal ALP, human placental ALP-and on ALP activity across species in mouse, monkey, and human plasma. In vivo PK and pharmacodynamic (PD) effects of a single oral dose of DS-1211 in mice and monkeys were evaluated, including biomarker changes in PPi and pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP). Oral bioavailability (BA) was determined through administration of DS-1211 at a 0.3-mg/kg dose in monkeys. In vitro experiments demonstrated DS-1211 inhibited ALP activity through an uncompetitive mode of action. DS-1211 exhibited TNAP selectivity and potent inhibition of TNAP across species. In vivo studies in mice and monkeys after single oral administration of DS-1211 showed linear PKs, with dose-dependent inhibition of ALP activity and increases in plasma PPi and PLP. Inhibitory effects of DS-1211 were consistent in both mouse and monkey. Mean absolute oral BA was 73.9%. Overall, in vitro and in vivo studies showed DS-1211 is a potent and selective TNAP inhibitor across species. Further in vivo pharmacology studies in ectopic calcification animal models and clinical investigations of DS-1211 in patient populations are warranted. © 2022 Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Pathological calcification in osteoarthritis: an outcome or a disease initiator?

In the progression of osteoarthritis, pathological calcification in the affected joint is an important feature. The role of these crystallites in the pathogenesis and progression of osteoarthritis is controversial; it remains unclear whether they act as a disease initiator or are present as a result of joint damage. Recent studies reported that the molecular mechanisms regulating physiological calcification of skeletal tissues are similar to those regulating pathological or ectopic calcification of soft tissues. Pathological calcification takes place when the equilibrium is disrupted. Calcium phosphate crystallites are identified in most affected joints and the presence of these crystallites is closely correlated with the extent of joint destruction. These observations suggest that pathological calcification is most likely to be a disease initiator instead of an outcome of osteoarthritis progression. Inhibiting pathological crystallite deposition within joint tissues therefore represents a potential therapeutic target in the management of osteoarthritis.

FIGHT-302: Phase III study of first-line (1L) pemigatinib (PEM) versus gemcitabine (GEM) plus cisplatin (CIS) for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) with FGFR2 fusions or rearrangements.

TPS592 Background: For advanced CCA, standard of care 1L systemic treatment is GEM + CIS. Genetic alterations in intrahepatic CCA provide potential therapeutic targets. Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) 2 gene rearrangements driving CCA tumorigenesis were identified almost exclusively in intrahepatic CCA patients (pts) (incidence, 10–16%). In phase 2, PEM (INCB054828), a selective, potent, oral FGFR1–3 inhibitor elicited an objective response rate (ORR) of 35.5% and median progression-free survival (PFS) of 6.9 months (mo) in previously treated, locally advanced or metastatic CCA with FGFR2 rearrangements (NCT02924376). FIGHT-302, a randomized, open-label, phase 3 study will evaluate efficacy and safety of 1L PEM vs GEM + CIS in unresectable/metastatic CCA with FGFR2 fusions or rearrangements (NCT03656536). Methods: Eligible pts are adults with confirmed unresectable/metastatic CCA; no prior systemic therapy for advanced disease < 6 mo before enrollment; radiographically measurable/evaluable disease (per RECIST v1.1); ECOG PS ≤1; documented FGFR2 fusions or rearrangements. Exclusions include clinically significant corneal or retinal disorder; history of calcium and phosphate homeostasis disorder or systemic mineral imbalance with ectopic soft tissue calcification; untreated CNS metastases or history of uncontrolled seizures. Pts will be randomized (1:1; stratified by region and tumor burden) to PEM 13.5 mg QD on a 21-day (d) cycle or GEM (1000 mg/m2) + CIS (25 mg/m2) on D1 and D8 of 21-d cycles (max 8). Crossover to PEM allowed after confirmed progression. PEM titration to 18 mg from cycle 2 allowed for pts without hyperphosphatemia (serum phosphate > 5.5 mg/dL) and Grade ≥2 treatment-related adverse events during cycle 1. Hyperphosphatemia will be managed with diet modifications, phosphate binders, diuretics, or dose adjustments. Treatment will continue until progression or unacceptable toxicity. Primary endpoint is PFS (by independent review). Secondary endpoints are ORR, overall survival, duration of response, disease control rate, safety, and quality of life. Four pts (target N = 432) are enrolled as of Sep 25, 2019. Clinical trial information: NCT03656536.

Clinical and genetic analysis of idiopathic normophosphatemic tumoral calcinosis in 19 patients.

Tumoral calcinosis is a rare clinicopathological entity characterized by ectopic soft-tissue calcification, typically periarticular. Normophosphatemic tumoral calcinosis is seldom reported in East Asian populations, and the preoperative diagnosis is often elusive. This study was performed to characterize the clinical profile of normophosphatemic tumoral calcinosis and investigate the presence of the SAMD9 gene mutation. The clinical features, pathological examination findings, and outcomes of 19 subjects were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were analyzed for SAMD9 gene mutation using paraffin-embedded tumoral calcinosis specimens. Nineteen subjects were analyzed (7 males, 12 females). Their mean age at surgery, mean age at symptom onset, and median disease duration was 51.9 ± 17.3 (range 7-75)years, 49.1 ± 17.2 (range 7-74)years, and 1.3 (interquartile range 0.5-3.0)years, respectively. Lesions were located in the hand in 8 (42.1%) subjects; wrist in 5 (26.3%); shoulder in 2 (10.5%); and hip, knee, buttock, and scrotum in 1 (5.3%) subject each. The lesions in 17 (89.5%) subjects were located around the joints [small joints (hand and wrist) in 13 (68.4%) and large joints (shoulder, hip, and knee) in 4 (21.1%)]. Lesions occurred in the upper limbs in 15 (78.9%) subjects and in the lower limbs in 2 (10.5%). Multiple-lesion involvement (distal right index finger and middle finger) occurred in one (5.3%) subject. Symptoms included pain in 15 (78.9%) subjects, impaired mobility in 5 (26.3%), swelling in 5 (26.3%), numbness in 2 (10.5%), and an asymptomatic mass in 2 (10.5%). The serum inorganic phosphorus concentration was normal in all 19 subjects (mean 1.17 ± 0.15mmol/L). The serum calcium concentration was normal in 18 subjects and low in 1. The serum alkaline phosphatase concentration was normal in all 19 subjects. Pathological examination indicated multiple nodules of calcified materials that manifested an amorphous or granular blue-purple crystal and were surrounded by proliferation of mononuclear or multinuclear macrophages, osteoclastic-like giant cells, fibroblasts, and chronic inflammatory cells. Notably, different phases of pathological manifestations were observed in the same microscopic field. During follow-up (0.5-65.0months), no recurrence of tumoral calcinosis was observed in 18 (94.7%) subjects, but 1 subject developed in situ recurrence of an asymptomatic subcutaneous mass after 6months postoperatively. Genetic analysis in all 19 subjects revealed no SAMD9 gene mutations. Most subjects were females and developed calcinosis in adulthood. Small joints (hand and wrist) and the upper limbs were frequently involved. The presence of different phases of pathological features in the same subject suggests that about half of the study participants had been misdiagnosed with another condition (such as gout, osteoarthritis, etc.). Complete surgical excision led to cure without recurrence during follow-up in majority of the study participants.

FUZE clinical trial: a phase 2 study of Debio 1347 in FGFR fusion-positive advanced solid tumors irrespectively of tumor histology.

TPS3157 Background: Dysregulation of fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) signaling by FGFR fusions is implicated in many cancers. Debio 1347 is a selective oral inhibitor of FGFR 1-3 tyrosine kinases. It exhibited high antitumor activity in in vitro and in vivo tumor models with FGFR1-3 gene fusions. Preliminary data from an ongoing phase 1 trial show efficacy and tolerability in patients (pts) harboring FGFR 1-3 fusion irrespectively of tumor type. We present the design for a multicenter, basket, 2-stage, adaptive single arm Phase 2 trial investigating Debio 1347 in pts with solid tumors harboring FGFR1-3 fusion/rearrangement. Methods: Adults with locally advanced/unresectable or metastatic tumors with documented FGFR1-3 gene fusion/rearrangement who require systemic therapy and have progression after ≥1 prior standard treatment or have no satisfactory alternative treatment option are eligible. Three cohorts are included: biliary tract cancer (cohort 1), urothelial cancer (cohort 2) and all other solid tumors (cohort 3). Primary brain tumors are excluded. Other key exclusion criteria include prior treatment with FGFR1-3 selective inhibitor; clinically significant corneal/retinal disorder; history of calcium/phosphate homeostasis disorder or systemic mineral imbalance with ectopic soft tissue calcification, and symptomatic/unstable brain metastases < 1 month before enrollment. Genomic screening of tumor tissue is done at local or central laboratory with post-hoc central confirmation by RNA sequencing. Eligible pts will receive Debio 1347, 80 mg PO once daily in 28-day cycles until occurrence of progression or unacceptable toxicity. Primary Endpoint is objective response rate (ORR) based on independent central review using RECIST v.1.1. The targeted sample size (N=125) will provide approximately 90% power to reject H0: ORR ≤ 15% at an overall 5% significance level based on an expected ORR of 30% in at least one of the cohorts. Secondary endpoints are: duration of response, disease control rate, progression-free survival, overall survival, safety, tolerability, and quality of life. An interim analysis for futility and homogeneity will be performed after 27 evaluable pts. PK sparse sampling is performed to assess exposure-response relationships with efficacy and safety. Biomarkers of response and resistance will be explored. Accrual is opened in US, EU, Asia and Australia. Clinical trial information: NCT03834220.

Trial design for a phase 3 study evaluating pemigatinib (INCB054828) versus gemcitabine plus cisplatin chemotherapy in first-line treatment of patients with cholangiocarcinoma with FGFR2 rearrangement.

TPS462 Background: Dysregulation of fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) signaling by FGFR genetic alterations is implicated in many cancers, including cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). FGFR2 translocations with fusion partners occur in ≈10% to 20% of intrahepatic CCA tumors. Pemigatinib is a selective oral inhibitor of FGFR-1, 2, 3. Preliminary data from the ongoing phase 2 study show efficacy and tolerable safety in patients (pts) with CCA with FGFR2 translocations. We present the design for a phase 3, open-label, randomized trial investigating pemigatinib monotherapy versus gemcitabine plus cisplatin chemotherapy in the first-line treatment of pts with advanced/metastatic or unresectable CCA with FGFR2 rearrangement. Methods: Eligible pts (target, N = 432) are ≥ 18 years (≥ 20 years for Japanese pts) and have ECOG performance status ≤ 1 and histologically confirmed advanced (locally advanced, metastatic, or recurrent) CCA with a documented FGFR2 rearrangement. Key exclusion criteria include prior systemic therapy, excluding adjuvant/neoadjuvant treatment completed ≥ 6 months before enrollment; current evidence of clinically significant corneal or retinal disorder; history of calcium and phosphate homeostasis disorder or systemic mineral imbalance with ectopic calcification of soft tissues; and known, untreated CNS metastases or history of uncontrolled seizures. Pts are randomized 1:1 and stratified by geographic region and tumor burden into 2 treatment groups: pemigatinib starting dose 13.5 mg once daily continuously on a 3-week cycle; or gemcitabine (1000 mg/m2) and cisplatin (25 mg/m2) administered intravenously on days 1 and 8 of every 3-week cycle for up to 8 cycles until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Crossover to pemigatinib may be allowed once progressive disease is confirmed. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival (based on independent central review using RECIST v1.1). Secondary endpoints include overall response rate, overall survival, duration of response, disease control rate, safety and tolerability, and impact on quality of life. Clinical trial information: NCT03656536.

Vitamin D and kidney disease

Calcium and phosphorus are essential minerals required for many critical biologic functions including cell signaling, energy metabolism, skeletal growth and integrity. Calcium and phosphate homeostasis are maintained primarily by regulation of epithelial calcium and phosphate cotransport in the kidney and intestine, processes that are tightly regulated by hormones including 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D), fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and parathyroid hormone (PTH). In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), as renal function declines, disruption of feedback loops between these hormones have adverse consequences on several organ systems, including the skeleton, heart and vascular system. CKD-associated mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) is defined as a systemic disorder of mineral and bone metabolism due to CKD manifested by abnormalities of calcium, phosphorus, PTH or vitamin D metabolism, abnormalities of bone turnover, mineralization and volume, and ectopic soft tissue calcification. Complications of CKD-MBD include vascular calcification, stroke, skeletal fracture and increased risk of death. Increased FGF23 and PTH concentrations, and 1,25(OH)2D deficiency contribute to the pathogenesis of CKD-MBD. Therefore, treatment of patients with CKD-MBD is focused on restoring the feedback loops to maintain normal calcium and phosphate balance to prevent skeletal and cardiovascular complications.

Parathyroid hormone replacement in hypoparathyroidism

Hypoparathyroidism results from insufficient parathyroid hormone (PTH) to maintain normal serum levels of calcium and phosphate. Unlike most endocrine deficiency disorders, the current standard of treatment is not replacement with PTH but supplementation with calcium and vitamin D. Normal physiology cannot be fully restored with calcium and vitamin D, and long-term complications of this treatment include impaired renal function, nephrolithiasis and ectopic soft tissue calcification. In the last decade clinical studies have emerged using PTH for the treatment of hypoparathyroidism either in place of or in addition to standard treatment with calcium and vitamin D. The effects of PTH replacement on biochemical indices, bone metabolism and quality of life have been promising.

Metastatic Calcification of the Finger in a Chronic Renal Failure Patient

Metastatic calcification is defined as ectopic calcification of soft tissues in patients with a systemic mineral imbalance, and dystrophic calcification or heterotopic ossification is distinct from that disease. The authors encountered a metastatic calcification of the finger in a patient with chronic renal failure, the lesion disappeared spontaneously during the observation period. We report on a case of metastatic calcification of the finger with a review of the literature.

Targeting of the Osteoclastogenic RANKL–RANK Axis Prevents Osteoporotic Bone Loss and Soft Tissue Calcification in Coxsackievirus B3–Infected Mice

Bone mineralization is a normal physiological process, whereas ectopic calcification of soft tissues is a pathological process that leads to irreversible tissue damage. We have established a coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3)-infected mouse model that manifests both osteoporosis and ectopic calcification specifically in heart, pancreas, and lung. The CVB3-infected mice showed increased serum concentrations of both cytokines including IL-1β, TNF-α, and the receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) that stimulate osteoclast formation and of the osteoclast-derived protein tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b. They exhibited more osteoclasts in bone, with no change in the number of osteoblasts, and a decrease in bone formation and the serum concentration of osteoblast-produced osteocalcin. These results indicate that CVB3-induced osteoporosis is likely due to upregulation of osteoclast formation and function, in addition to decreased osteoblast activity. In addition, the serum in the CVB3-infected mice contained a high inorganic phosphate content, which causes ectopic calcification. RANKL treatment induced an increase in the in vitro cardiac fibroblast calcification by inorganic phosphate via the upregulation of osteogenic BMP2, SPARC, Runx2, Fra-1, and NF-κB signaling. We finally observed that i.p. administration of RANK-Fc, a recombinant antagonist of RANKL, prevented bone loss as well as ectopic calcification in CVB3-infected mice. Thus, our results indicate that RANKL may contribute to both abnormal calcium deposition in soft tissues and calcium depletion in bone. In addition, our animal model should provide a tool for the development of new therapeutic agents for calcium disturbance in soft and hard tissues.

Stanniocalcin 2 is associated with ectopic calcification in α-klotho mutant mice and inhibits hyperphosphatemia-induced calcification in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells

Ectopic calcification of soft tissues can have severe clinical consequences especially when localized to vital organs such as heart, arteries and kidneys. Mammalian stanniocalcin (STC) 1 and 2 are glycoprotein hormones identified as calcium/phosphate-regulating hormones. The mRNA of STCs is upregulated in the kidney of α-klotho mutant (kl/kl) mice, which have hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia and hypervitaminosis D and exhibit a short life span, osteopenia and ectopic calcification. In the present study, we investigated the distribution and localization of STCs in kl/kl mice. Quantitative RT-PCR revealed that renal mRNA expression of STC2 was increased in both kl/kl mice and fibroblast growth factor 23 (Fgf23)-null mice compared with wild type mice. Interestingly, STC2 protein was focally localized with the calcified lesions of renal arterioles, renal tubular cells, heart and aorta in kl/kl mice. In vitro analysis of rat aortic vascular smooth muscle (A-10) cells showed that inorganic phosphate (Pi) stimulation significantly increased STC2 mRNA levels as well as that of osteocalcin, osteopontin and the type III sodium-dependent phosphate co-transporter (PiT-1), and induced STC2 secretion. Interestingly, the knockdown with a small interfering RNA or the over-expression of STC2 showed acceleration and inhibition of Pi-induced calcification in A-10 cells, respectively. These results suggest that the up-regulation of STC2 gene expression resulting from abnormal α-klotho-Fgf23 signaling may contribute to limitation of ectopic calcification and thus STC2 represents a novel target gene for cardio-renal syndrome.

Clinical Outcome and Mechanism of Soft Tissue Calcification in Werner Syndrome

Werner syndrome (WS) is an autosomal recessive progeroid disorder caused by mutations in RecQ DNA helicase. Ectopic soft tissue calcification is one of the well known symptoms in WS. However, the prevalence, clinical outcome, and mechanism of such calcification remain to be elucidated. The clinical features and mechanism of ectopic calcification were examined in seven patients with WS whose diagnosis were confirmed by a genomic DNA analysis. X-ray examinations revealed subcutaneous calcification in 35 of 41 major joints (85.3%). The patients complained of dermal pain at 23 joints among 35 joints (65.7%) with calcification. Refractory skin ulcers were found at the area of the skin overlaying the calcification in 16 joints (45.7%). In contrast, no pain or ulcers were observed in the joints without calcification. The presence of ectopic calcification could not be explained by a systemic hormonal abnormality. Cultured fibroblasts from WS patients underwent spontaneous mineralization in vitro in the normal phosphate condition, and overexpressed Pit-1, a transmembrane type III Na-Pi cotransporter both at the mRNA and protein levels. Phosphonophormic acid, a specific inhibitor for Pit-1, inhibited mineralization in the WS fibroblasts. Both calcification and Pit-1 overexpression were detected in the skin of WS in situ. WS showed a high prevalence of ectopic calcification, which was associated with dermal pain and refractory skin ulcers. An overexpression of Pit-1 therefore seems to play a key role in the formation of soft tissue calcification in this syndrome.

Exploring the biology of vascular calcification in chronic kidney disease: What's circulating?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with fatal cardiovascular consequences in part due to ectopic calcification of soft tissues particularly arteries, capillaries, and cardiac valves. An increasing body of evidence from experimental studies and in vivo data suggest that (I) a mineral imbalance with hyperphosphatemia and high-circulating calcium x phosphate product, (II) a deficiency of systemic or local calcification inhibitors, (III) death or 'damage' of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and/or (IV) phenotypic transformation of VSMCs to osteo/chondrocytic cells may all act in concert to initiate and sustain vascular calcification. In CKD patients inhibitory systems are overwhelmed by a multitude of agents that induce VSMC damage and cell death resulting in the release of vesicles capable of nucleating basic calcium phosphate. Studies with genetically altered mice have identified both local and systemic calcification inhibitors that act to maintain VSMC differentiation or regulate vesicle properties. However, for many of these proteins the mechanisms and sites of action are still under investigation. In particular, it is unclear whether factors present in the circulation have an inhibitory role there and whether circulating levels of these proteins influence or are indicative of underlying disease processes in individual patients. A greater understanding of the origins and roles of potential circulating inhibitors may result in novel strategies aimed at the prevention or reversal of the life-limiting calcifying vasculopathies seen in CKD patients.

Sevelamer hydrochloride prevents ectopic calcification and renal osteodystrophy in chronic renal failure rats

Hyperphosphatemia is associated with severe complications, including ectopic calcification of soft tissues, secondary hyperparathyroidism, and renal osteodystrophy (ROD). Sevelamer hydrochloride is a nonabsorbed calcium- and metal-free phosphate binder that lowers serum phosphorus levels in hemodialysis patients. This study examined the efficacy of sevelamer in preventing ectopic calcification of soft tissues and ROD in adenine-induced renal failure rats. Male, 12-week-old Wistar-Jcl rats were freely fed an adenine diet (0.75 g adenine in 100 g normal diet) for four weeks. After three weeks of the adenine diet, when serum phosphorus levels had significantly increased, the rats were freely fed a normal diet that contained 1% or 2% of sevelamer for another five weeks. Time course changes of serum levels of phosphorus, calcium, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were measured. At the end of the study, calcium and phosphorus levels in the heart and aorta were measured, and the calcification of kidney, heart, aorta, and stomach were histopathologically examined. The severity of ROD was evaluated by a histopathologic and morphometric analysis of the femurs. Compared with the adenine controls (N = 10), the sevelamer-treated (1%, N = 6; and 2%, N = 10) groups of adenine-induced renal failure rats had reduced serum phosphorus, serum calcium x phosphorus product, and serum PTH levels. Moreover, in the treatment groups, sevelamer suppressed calcification of the aorta media, and also the osteoid volume, fibrosis volume, and porosity ratio of femurs. These results suggest that sevelamer treatment might contribute to the suppression of ectopic calcification and ROD.

Aberrant ossification halted after head trauma

One of the many complications of severe head trauma is heterotopic ossification (HO), the formation in various parts of the body of new bony masses in tissue (such as muscle) that usually does not calcify. Prophylactic treatments such as active and passive motion, splinting, anti-inflammatory drugs, diathermy, ultrasound, and low-dose radiation all have had limited success in preventing such ossification. The results of two preliminary studies, however, indicate that etidronate disodium, an agent most commonly used to treat Paget's disease, has proved useful in preventing primary HO as well as its recurrence after surgical removal of aberrant bony masses. Etidronate and other diphosphonates are analogues of pyrophosphate, which is involved with calcification in vivo. Diphosphonates apparently retard both the formation and dissolution of hydroxyapatite crystals, thereby preventing bone resorption (as occurs in Paget's disease) as well as ectopic soft tissue calcification. Although diphosphonates have been used to prevent HO in

Scleral and choroidal calcifications in a patient with pseudohypoparathyroidism.

This case report suggests that calcifications in the sclera and choroid may be a feature of pseudohypoparathyroidism and shows a calcium distribution more extensive and severe than that characteristically seen in other metabolic conditions associated with calcium deposits in the eye. Ocular ectopic calcification is a part of the more generalised ectopic soft tissue calcification seen with pseudohypoparathyroidism. Evaluation of the contribution of the terminal renal failure and uraemia to the ectopic ocular calcification would require sequential evaluation of eyes with pseudohypoparathyroidism, but without the added complication of uraemia.