[Measurement of serum MGP].
Matrix Gla protein (MGP) is an extracellular matrix protein and originally from bone tissue. MGP expression is demonstrated not only in calcified tissues but also in soft tissues. MGP is expressed in the human normal blood vessels as well as atherosclerotic plaques. High levels of MGP were found in human atheromatous plaques. There is no significant correlation between serum MGP levels and bone volume. In cardiovascular disease patients, serum MGP levels were significantly decreased. This finding suggests that serum MGP levels may reflect the progression of cardiovascular disease.
Jono
Shuichi
S
Department of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Molecular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine.
Nishizawa
Yoshiki
Y