Summary
Four potential basic mechanisms of arterial wall calcification were identified: 1) loss of inhibitory action on crystallization of biological macromolecules, 2) nucleation of calcium phospate precipitation by dead cells and/or their membranes, 3) autocatalytic nucleation of cholesterol by antibodies against cholesterol crystals, and 4) formation of bone-like structures in advanced atherosclerotic lesions. The relevance and interplay of these mechanisms has not yet been clarified. Their elucidation will require a concerted effort of natural scientists and medical specialists.
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Epple, M., Lanzer, P. How much interdisciplinarity is required to understand vascular calcifications? Formulation of four basic principles of vascular calcification. Z Kardiol 90 (Suppl 3), III2–III5 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s003920170036
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s003920170036