Inverse Association between T50 Calciprotein Crystallization (Serum Calcification Propensity) and Carotid Artery Intima-Media Thickness in Health Examinees with a Reduced Kidney Function

AIM: T50 is the time required for primary calciprotein particles (CPPs) to transform into secondary CPPs in vitro, reflecting serum calcification propensity, and used as a biomarker for calcification stress. Since secondary CPPs induce inflammation and oxidative stress, they may promote atherosclerosis. We investigated whether or not T50 was associated with carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT). METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of 202 health examinees. T50 was measured by the established nephelometric method. Carotid artery IMT was measured by high-resolution ultrasonography. The association between T50 and IMT was evaluated by a multivariable-adjusted linear regression analysis. RESULTS: . CONCLUSION: T50 was independently and inversely associated with IMT in health examinees with a reduced kidney function, suggesting a novel link between calcification stress and atherosclerosis, particularly in those with chronic kidney disease.