《Assay for Human Matrix Gla Protein》.pdfVIP

Assay for Human Matrix Gla Protein in Serum Potential Applications in the Cardiovascular Field L.A.J.L.M. Braam, P. Dissel, B.L.M.G. Gijsbers, H.M.H. Spronk, K. Hamulya´k, B.A.M. Soute, W. Debie, C. Vermeer Abstract—Matrix Gla protein (MGP) is synthesized in a vitamin K–dependent way in smooth muscle cells of the healthy vessel wall, and its mRNA transcription is substantially upregulated in atherosclerotic lesions. Here we report the preparation of a monoclonal antibody against human MGP and its use in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The intra-assay and interassay coefficients of variation in serum samples were 5.4% and 12.6%, respectively, and the lower detection limit was 8.5% of the normal serum value. Individual within-day variations were 11% and did not show a distinct circadian pattern. Day-to-day variations in fasting morning samples were 8%. In a first explorative survey, serum MGP concentrations were found to be significantly increased in patients with severe atherosclerosis, whereas these values were normal in those with low bone mass and osteoporosis. This finding is consistent with the high MGP mRNA expression observed in atherosclerotic vessels and plaques. More elaborate studies are required to assess the potential clinical utility of this newly developed assay. (Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol . 2000;20:1257-1261.) Key Words: vitamin K -carboxyglutamate atherosclerosis ectopic calcification diagnostics Vitamin K is a cofactor in the posttranslational conversion the media in a similar way as was reported for MGP-deficient of glutamate residues into -carboxyglutamate (Gla). At mice. Whether this effect was due to poor cellular excretion this time, 10 mammalian Gla-containing proteins have been