what is matrix gla protein
Vascular calcification (VC) is a predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Hemodialysis (HD) patients suffer from severe vascular calcifications. Matrix Gla protein (MGP) is a central calcification inhibitor of the arterial wall and its activity depends on vitamin K-dependent Î³-glutamate carboxylation. Noncarboxylated MGP, formed as a result of vitamin K deficiency, is associated with cardiovascular disease.