Fibroblast growth factor-23 is associated with C-reactive protein, serum phosphate and bone mineral density in chronic kidney disease

Medium cut-off dialyzer improves reduction ratios of large middle molecules associated with vascular calcification

BACKGROUND

We aimed to investigate the change in the large middle molecule (>15 kDa) removal rate, which is associated with vascular calcification, when using a medium cut-off (MCO) dialyzer compared to a high-flux (HF) dialyzer.

METHODS

Twenty patients with clinically stable maintenance hemodialysis were investigated over a 15-week study period. Dialyzer efficacies were evaluated during the last midweek hemodialysis treatment for each consecutive dialyzer membrane use: 1st HF, MCO, and 2nd HF dialyzer; 5 weeks each period. Changes in α1-microglobulin (33 kDa) during a dialysis session were analyzed to assess the efficacy of the MCO dialyzer as a reference. The levels and reduction ratios of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23, 32 kDa), osteoprotegerin (OPG, 60 kDa), and sclerostin (22 kDa) were analyzed. Large middle molecules were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Serum hemoglobin, phosphorus, and corrected calcium levels were not significantly different for each dialyzer period. Total protein and albumin values during the MCO dialyzer period did not decrease compared with the HF dialyzer period. The reduction ratio of α1-microglobulin was significantly higher in the MCO dialyzer than in the HF dialyzer (p < 0.001). The reduction ratios of FGF23 (p < 0.001), OPG (p < 0.001), and sclerostin (p < 0.001) were significantly higher in the MCO dialyzer than those in the HF dialyzer.

CONCLUSION

The reduction rate of large middle molecules related to vascular calcification, such as FGF23, OPG, and sclerostin, was significantly higher when using the MCO dialyzer than the HF dialyzer.

Fibroblast growth factor 23 and its role in bone diseases

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) has been casually linked to numerous hypophosphatemic bone diseases, however connection with bone loss or fragility fractures is still a matter of debate. The purpose of this review is to explore and summarise the known actions of FGF23 in various pathological bone conditions. Besides implication in bone mineralisation, elevated FGF23 showed a pathological effecton bone remodelling, primarily by inhibiting osteoblast function. Unlike the weak association with bone mineral density, high values of FGF23 have been connected with fragility fracture prevalence. This review shows that its effects on bone are concomitantly present on multiple levels, affecting both qualitative and quantitative part of bone strength, eventually leading to impaired bone strength and increased tendency of fractures. Recognising FGF23 as a risk factor for the development of bone diseases and correcting its levels could lead to the reduction of morbidity and mortality in specific groups of patients.

Low Klotho/Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 Ratio Is an Independent Risk Factor for Renal Progression in Chronic Kidney Disease: Finding From KNOW-CKD

Background

We aimed to evaluate soluble Klotho and circulating fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) ratio as a risk factor for renal progression, cardiovascular (CV) events, and mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

We analyzed 2,099 subjects from a CKD cohort whose soluble Klotho and C-terminal FGF23 levels were measured at enrollment. The Klotho to FGF23 ratio was calculated as Klotho values divided by FGF23 values + 1 (hereinafter called the Klotho/FGF23 ratio). Participants were categorized into quartiles according to Klotho/FGF23 ratio. The primary outcome was renal events, defined as the doubling of serum creatinine, 50% reduction of estimated glomerular filtration rate from the baseline values, or development of end-stage kidney disease. The secondary outcomes consisted of CV events and death. Changes in CV parameters at the time of enrollment and during follow-up according to the Klotho/FGF23 ratio were also examined.

Results

During the follow-up period of 64.0 ± 28.2 months, 735 (35.1%) and 273 (13.0%) subjects developed renal events and composite outcomes of CV events and death, respectively. After adjustment, the first (HR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.08–1.72, P = 0.010) and second (HR: 1.45; 95% CI: 1.15–1.83, P = 0.002) quartiles with regard to the Klotho/FGF23 ratio showed elevated risk of renal events as compared to the fourth quartile group. There was no significant association between Klotho/FGF23 ratio and the composite outcome of CV events and death. The prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy and vascular calcification was higher in the low Klotho/FGF23 ratio quartiles at baseline and at the fourth-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Low Klotho/FGF23 ratio was significantly associated with increased renal events in the cohort of Korean predialysis CKD patients.

High phosphate-induced progressive proximal tubular injury is associated with the activation of Stat3/Kim-1 signaling pathway and macrophage recruitment

Dietary phosphate intake in the Western population greatly exceeds the recommended dietary allowance and is linked to enhanced cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. It is unclear whether a chronic high phosphate diet (HPD) causes kidney injury in healthy individuals. Here, we show that feeding a 2% HPD in C57BL/6N mice for one up to six months resulted in hyperphosphatemia, hyperphosphaturia, increased plasma levels of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 23, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) compared to mice on a 0.8% phosphate diet. Kidney injury was already noted after two months of HPD characterized by loss of proximal tubular (PT) cell polarity, flattened epithelia, disruption of brush border membranes, vacuolization, increased PT cell proliferation, marked interstitial mononuclear infiltration, and progressive accumulation of collagen fibers. HPD increased Stat3 activation and Kim-1 expression in PT epithelial cells and enhanced renal synthesis of chemokines recruiting monocytes and macrophages as well as macrophage related factors. Enhanced recruitment of F4/80⁺ macrophages around injured PT lesions was timely associated with increased Kim-1 synthesis, tubular MCP-1 expression, and degree of PT injury score. Likewise, tubulointerstitial fibrosis was associated with activation of Stat3/Kim-1 signaling pathway. The stimulation of human proximal tubular cells with high phosphate activated Stat3 signaling and induced HAVCR1 and CCL2 expression. We conclude that high phosphate results in progressive proximal tubular injury, indicating that high dietary phosphate intake may affect kidney health and therefore represents an underestimated health problem for the general population.

Emerging cross-talks between chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) and malnutrition-inflammation complex syndrome (MICS) in patients receiving dialysis

Chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD–MBD) is a systemic disorder that affects multiple organs and systems and increases the risk of morbidity and mortality in patients with CKD, especially those receiving dialysis therapy. CKD–MBD is highly prevalent in CKD patients, and its treatment is gaining attention from healthcare providers who manage these patients. Additional important pathologies often observed in CKD patients are chronic inflammation and malnutrition/protein-energy wasting (PEW). These two pathologies coexist to form a vicious cycle that accelerates the progression of various other pathologies in CKD patients. This concept is integrated into the term “malnutrition–inflammation–atherosclerosis syndrome” or “malnutrition–inflammation complex syndrome (MICS)”. Recent basic and clinical studies have shown that CKD–MBD directly induces inflammation as well as malnutrition/PEW. Indeed, higher circulating levels of inorganic phosphate, fibroblast growth factor 23, parathyroid hormone, and calciprotein particles, as markers for critical components and effectors of CKD–MBD, were shown to directly induce inflammatory responses, thereby leading to malnutrition/PEW, cardiovascular diseases, and clinically relevant complications. In this short review, we discuss the close interplay between CKD–MBD and MICS and emphasize the significance of simultaneous control of these two seemingly distinct pathologies in patients with CKD, especially those receiving dialysis therapy, for better management of the CKD/hemodialysis population.

The frequency of osteoporosis in patients with predialysis chronic renal failure and the factors affecting the development of osteoporosis

Background

Osteoporosis is a common public health problem in chronic kidney patients. The risk factors for osteoporosis in patients with nondialysis CKD have not been fully investigated. It is not known exactly whether the risk factors of osteoporosis in the general population are also valid for the nondialysis CKD patients. Aims: This study aims to determine the frequency of osteoporosis and the risk factors for osteoporosis in nondialysis CKD patients.

Patients and Methods

Our study was performed with 283 nondialysis stage 3-5 CKD patients. According to the BMD results, the patients were classified into groups as normal, osteopenia and osteoporosis according to World Health Organization criteria. Monocyte/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratio (MHR), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were calculated individually for all cases.

Results

According to our BMD results, 67 (24%) patients were found to have osteoporosis. In the osteoporosis patient group, compared to the normal BMD group, females were higher and the mean age was higher (P = 0.025, P = 0.028). Body mass index (BMI) and eGFR were lower in the osteoporosis group (P = 0.013). Parathyroid Hormone and Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio in the patients in the osteoporosis group was higher than of those in the normal group (P = 0.026, P = 0.035). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, advanced age, female gender, and low BMI were determined as independent risk factors for the development of osteoporosis in nondialysis CKD patients.

Conclusion

Advanced age, female gender and low BMI are the risk factors for osteoporosis in nondialysis CKD patients. It may be a rational approach to measure BMD for the diagnosis of osteoporosis in nondialysis CKD patients who are elderly, female and have low BMI.

Influence of Mediterranean Diet Adherence and Physical Activity on Bone Health in Celiac Children on a Gluten-Free Diet

We aimed to assess the influence of the Mediterranean Diet adherence and physical activity (PA) on body composition, with a particular focus on bone health, in young patients with celiac disease (CD). The CD group (n = 59) included children with CD with a long (>18 months, n = 41) or recent (<18 months, n = 18) adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD). The non-celiac group (n = 40) included non-celiac children. After adjusting for potential confounders, the CD group showed lower body weight (p = 0.034), lean mass (p = 0.003), bone mineral content (p = 0.006), and bone Z-score (p = 0.036) than non-celiac children, even when the model was further adjusted for adherence to a GFD for at least 18 months. Among CD children, spending greater time in vigorous physical activity was associated with higher lean mass (p = 0.020) and bone mineral density with evidence of statistical significance (p = 0.078) regardless of the time they followed a GFD. In addition, a greater Mediterranean Diet adherence was associated with a higher bone Z-score (p = 0.020). Moreover, lean mass was strongly associated with bone mineral density and independently explained 12% of its variability (p < 0.001). These findings suggest the importance of correctly monitoring lifestyle in children with CD regarding dietary habits and PA levels to improve lean mass and, consequently, bone quality in this population.

Inflammation both increases and causes resistance to FGF23 in normal and uremic rats

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) increases phosphorus excretion and decreases calcitriol (1,25(OH)2D) levels. FGF23 increases from early stages of renal failure. We evaluated whether strict control of phosphorus intake in renal failure prevents the increase in FGF23 and to what extent inflammation impairs regulation of FGF23. The study was performed in 5/6 nephrectomized (Nx) Wistar rats fed diets containing 0.2-1.2% phosphorus for 3 or 15 days. FGF23 levels significantly increased in all Nx groups in the short-term (3-day) experiment. However, at 15 days, FGF23 increased in all Nx rats except in those fed 0.2% phosphorus. In a second experiment, Nx rats fed low phosphorus diets (0.2 and 0.4%) for 15 days received daily intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injections to induce inflammation. In these rats, FGF23 increased despite the low phosphorus diets. Thus, higher FGF23 levels were needed to maintain phosphaturia and normal serum phosphorus values. Renal Klotho expression was preserved in Nx rats on a 0.2% phosphorus diet, reduced on a 0.4% phosphorus diet, and markedly reduced in Nx rats receiving LPS. In ex vivo experiments, high phosphorus and LPS increased nuclear β-catenin and p65-NFκB and decreased Klotho. Inhibition of inflammation and Wnt signaling activation resulted in decreased FGF23 levels and increased renal Klotho. In conclusion, strict control of phosphorus intake prevented the increase in FGF23 in renal failure, whereas inflammation independently increased FGF23 values. Decreased Klotho may explain the renal resistance to FGF23 in inflammation. These effects are likely mediated by the activation of NFkB and Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

FGF23-klotho axis as predictive factors of fractures in type 2 diabetics with early chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

The aim of our study was to evaluate the relevance of FGF23-klotho axis in the predisposition for bone fractures in type 2 diabetic patients with early chronic kidney disease.

METHODS

In a prospective study we included 126 type 2 diabetic patients with CKD stages 2-3 (from 2010 to 2017). We used descriptive statistics, ANOVA and chi-square test. Our population was divided into two groups according to the occurrence of a bone fracture event or not, and the groups were compared considering several biological and laboratorial parameters. We employed a multiple regression model to identify risk factors for bone fracture events and hazard ratios (HR) were calculated using a backward stepwise likelihood ratio (LR) Cox regression.

RESULTS

Patients with a fracture event displayed higher levels of FGF-23, Phosphorus, PTH, TNF-α, OxLDL, HOMA-IR, calcium × phosphorus product and ACR and lower levels of Osteocalcin, α-Klotho, 25(OH)D3 and eGFR compared with patients without a fracture event (p < 0.001). The number of patients with a fracture event was higher than expected within inclining CKD stages (χ2, p = 0.06). The occurrence of fracture and the levels of TNF- α, klotho, 25(OH)D3 and OxLDL were found to predict patient entry into RRT (p < 0.05). Age, osteocalcin, α-Klotho and FGF-23 independently influenced the occurrence of bone fracture (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

α-Klotho and FGF-23 levels may have a good clinical use as biomarkers to predict the occurrence of fracture events.

FGF23 at the crossroads of phosphate, iron economy and erythropoiesis

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) was initially characterized as an important regulator of phosphate and calcium homeostasis. New research advances demonstrate that FGF23 is also linked to iron economy, inflammation and erythropoiesis. These advances have been fuelled, in part, by the serendipitous development of two distinct FGF23 assays that can substitute for invasive bone biopsies to infer the activity of the three main steps of FGF23 regulation in bone: transcription, post-translational modification and peptide cleavage. This 'liquid bone biopsy for FGF23 dynamics' enables large-scale longitudinal studies of FGF23 regulation that would otherwise be impossible in humans. The balance between FGF23 production, post-translational modification and cleavage is maintained or perturbed in different hereditary monogenic conditions and in acquired conditions that mimic these genetic disorders, including iron deficiency, inflammation, treatment with ferric carboxymaltose and chronic kidney disease. Looking ahead, a deeper understanding of the relationships between FGF23 regulation, iron homeostasis and erythropoiesis can be leveraged to devise novel therapeutic targets for treatment of anaemia and states of FGF23 excess, including chronic kidney disease.

FGF23-klotho axis, bone fractures, and arterial stiffness in dialysis: a case-control study

We performed a case-control study on 130 age- and sex-matched hemodialysis patients. In multivariate analysis, we observed that FGF23 levels were associated with fracture incidence and that soluble α-klotho levels were associated with the aortic-brachial arterial stiffness ratio.

INTRODUCTION

New bone markers such as sclerostin, Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1), fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23), and α-klotho have been identified as potential key players in bone and vascular abnormalities of chronic kidney disease. Therefore, we aimed to assess whether these markers are associated with fractures, bone metabolism, and vascular stiffness in dialysis patients.

METHODS

In a prospective hemodialysis cohort, where plasma samples and vascular assessment were performed at baseline, we matched patients who experienced a fracture during follow-up with sex- and age-matched non-fractured patients on a 1:4 ratio. Sclerostin, DKK1, α-klotho, FGF23, and markers of bone formation (alkaline phosphatase and procollagen type 1-N terminal propeptide [P1NP]) and bone resorption (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b [TRAP5b]) were measured in baseline plasma samples. Aortic-brachial pulse wave velocity ratio, a blood pressure independent measure of arterial stiffness, was used to assess vascular stiffness at baseline.

RESULTS

We included 130 hemodialysis patients (26 fractured, 104 non-fractured) with a median follow-up of 42 months and a median age of 72 years. In multivariate Cox regression models, high FGF23 levels were associated with increased fracture incidence (adjusted HR = 2.97; 95% CI 1.18, 7.43). α-Klotho levels were associated with bone formation but not resorption markers. In both univariate and multivariable adjusted models, α-klotho levels were inversely associated with the aortic-brachial pulse wave velocity ratio (β = - 0.070; 95% CI - 0.133, - 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest a role for FGF23/klotho axis on bone and vascular metabolism in dialysis populations.

Does inflammation affect outcomes in dialysis patients?

Chronic, low-grade inflammation is a common comorbid condition in chronic kidney disease (CKD), and particularly in chronic dialysis patients. In this review, we consider the question of whether inflammation affects outcomes in dialysis patients. Levels of proinflammatory cytokines, as well as C-reactive protein, are elevated in chronic dialysis patients. Multiple factors likely contribute to chronic inflammatory activation in kidney disease patients including the uremic milieu, lifestyle and epigenetic influences, infectious and thrombotic events, the dialysis process, and dysbiosis. Increased inflammatory markers in both CKD and chronic dialysis patients are associated with adverse clinical outcomes including all-cause mortality, cardiovascular events, kidney disease progression, protein energy wasting and diminished motor function, cognitive impairment, as well as other adverse consequences including CKD-mineral and bone disorder, anemia, and insulin resistance. Strategies that have been shown to reduce chronic systemic inflammation in CKD and chronic dialysis patients include both pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions. However, despite evidence that systemic inflammatory markers can be lowered in kidney disease patients treated with various strategies, evidence that this improves clinical outcomes is largely unavailable and represents an important future research direction. Overall, there is strong observational evidence that inflammation is high in chronic dialysis patients and that this is independently associated with numerous adverse clinical outcomes. Targeting inflammation represents a potentially novel and attractive strategy if it can indeed improve adverse outcomes common in this population.

Markers of vitamin D metabolism and incidence of clinically diagnosed abdominal aortic aneurysm: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study

Little is known about whether markers of vitamin D metabolism are associated with the development of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), though these markers have been linked to other cardiovascular diseases. We tested the hypotheses that risk of AAA is higher among individuals with low serum concentrations of 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D], and among those with elevated concentrations of calcium, fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) using data from a cohort of black and white individuals with long-term follow-up. Markers of vitamin D metabolism were measured using serum collected in 1990-1992 from ARIC study participants (mean ± SD age 56.9 ± 5.7 years, 43.2% male, 23.9% black). A total of 12,770 participants were followed until 2011 for incident AAA. Multivariable-adjusted Cox regression models were used. A total of 449 incident AAA events occurred over a median follow-up of 19.7 years. For the association between serum calcium and risk of incident AAA there was evidence of interaction by sex ( p-interaction 0.02). Among women, in the fully adjusted model, the hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) comparing the highest to lowest quartile was 2.43 (1.25-4.73), whereas in men it was 1.01 (0.72-1.43). Not associated with risk of incident AAA were 25(OH)D, FGF23, phosphorus, and PTH. In this large prospective cohort, there was little evidence that markers of vitamin D metabolism are associated with risk of incident AAA. The positive association of calcium with AAA among women may warrant further investigation and replication in other populations.

Osteoporosis, bone mineral density and CKD-MBD complex (I): Diagnostic considerations

Osteoporosis (OP) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) independently influence bone and cardiovascular health. A considerable number of patients with CKD, especially those with stages 3a to 5D, have a significantly reduced bone mineral density leading to a high risk of fracture and a significant increase in associated morbidity and mortality. Independently of classic OP related to age and/or gender, the mechanical properties of bone are also affected by inherent risk factors for CKD ("uraemic OP"). In the first part of this review, we will analyse the general concepts regarding bone mineral density, OP and fractures, which have been largely undervalued until now by nephrologists due to the lack of evidence and diagnostic difficulties in the context of CKD. It has now been proven that a reduced bone mineral density is highly predictive of fracture risk in CKD patients, although it does not allow a distinction to be made between the causes which generate it (hyperparathyroidism, adynamic bone disease and/or senile osteoporosis, etc.). Therefore, in the second part, we will analyse the therapeutic indications in different CKD stages. In any case, the individual assessment of factors which represent a higher or lower risk of fracture, the quantification of this risk (i.e. using tools such as FRAX^®) and the potential indications for densitometry in patients with CKD could represent an important first step pending new clinical guidelines based on randomised studies which do not exclude CKD patients, all the while avoiding therapeutic nihilism in an area of growing importance.

Interleukin-1 inhibition, chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder, and physical function

Objective: Epidemiologic studies have suggested a link between chronic systemic inflammation and chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD). Additionally, declining renal function is associated with worsening physical and cognitive function, which may potentially be explained by systemic inflammation, CKD-MBD, or both. We hypothesized that inhibiting inflammation with an interleukin-1 (IL-1) trap would improve markers of CKD-MBD as well as physical/cognitive function in patients with moderate-to-severe CKD. Methods: In a two-site, double-blind trial, 39 patients with stage 3 – 4 CKD completed a randomized trial receiving either the IL-1 trap rilonacept (160 mg/week) or placebo for 12 weeks. The following CKD-MBD markers were assessed in serum before and after the intervention: calcium, phosphorus, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23). A battery of tests was also administered in a subgroup (n = 23) to assess multiple domains of physical function (endurance, locomotion, dexterity, balance, strength, and fatigue) and cognitive function. Results: Participants were 65 ± 10 years of age, 23% female, and had a mean estimated glomerular filtration rate of 38 ± 13 mL/min/1.73m². There were no changes in serum calcium, phosphorus, any vitamin D metabolite, iPTH, or FGF23 levels (p ≥ 0.28) with IL-1 inhibition. Similarly, rilonacept did not alter locomotion, dexterity, balance, strength, fatigue, or cognitive function (p ≥ 0.13). However, endurance (400-m walk time) tended to improve in the rilonacept (–31 s) vs. placebo group (–2 s; p = 0.07). Conclusions: In conclusion, 12 weeks of IL-1 inhibition did not improve markers of CKD-MBD or physical function.

Cortical and trabecular bone are equally affected in rats with renal failure and secondary hyperparathyroidism

Background

Changes in mineral metabolism and bone structure develop early in the course of chronic kidney disease and at end-stage are associated with increased risk of fragility fractures. The disruption of phosphorus homeostasis leads to secondary hyperparathyroidism, a common complication of chronic kidney disease. However, the molecular pathways by which high phosphorus influences bone metabolism in the early stages of the disease are not completely understood. We investigated the effects of a high phosphorus diet on bone and mineral metabolism using a 5/6 nephrectomy model of chronic kidney disease.

Methods

Four-week old rats were randomly assigned into groups: 1) Control with standard diet, 2) Nephrectomy with standard rodent diet, and 3) Nephrectomy with high phosphorus diet. Rats underwent in vivo imaging at baseline, day 14, and day 28, followed by ex vivo imaging.

Results

Cortical bone density at the femoral mid-diaphysis was reduced in nephrectomy-control and nephrectomy-high phosphorus compared to control rats. In contrast, trabecular bone mass was reduced at both the lumbar vertebrae and the femoral secondary spongiosa in nephrectomy-high phosphorus but not in nephrectomy-control. Reduced trabecular bone volume adjusted for tissue volume was caused by changes in trabecular number and separation at day 35. Histomorphometry revealed increased bone resorption in tibial secondary spongiosa in nephrectomy-control. High phosphorus diet-induced changes in bone microstructure were accompanied by increased serum parathyroid hormone and fibroblast growth factor 23 levels.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that changes in mineral metabolism and hormonal dysfunction contribute to trabecular and cortical bone changes in this model of early chronic kidney disease.

Spleen contributes significantly to increased circulating levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 in response to lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation

Background

Circulating levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) increase progressively and correlate with systemic inflammation in chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the causal relationship between FGF23 and inflammation in CKD.

Methods

Circulating FGF23 and inflammatory cytokines were correlated in healthy subjects and patients with varying levels of CKD. In addition, FGF23 expression in blood and solid organs was measured in normal mice that were exposed acutely (one time) or chronically (2-week) to low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS); chronic exposure being either sustained (subcutaneous pellets), intermittent (daily injections) or combined sustained plus acute (subcutaneous pellets plus acute injection on the day of sacrifice). Blood was analyzed for both terminal (cFGF23) and intact (iFGF23) FGF23 levels. Solid tissues were investigated with immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results

FGF23 levels correlated significantly with neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin ( r = 0.72, P < 0.001), C-reactive protein ( r = 0.38, P < 0.001), tumor necrosis factor-α ( r = 0.32, P = 0.001) and interleukin-6 ( r = 0.48, P < 0.001). Acute LPS administration increased tissue FGF23 mRNA and plasma levels of cFGF23 but not iFGF23. Neither chronic sustained nor chronic pulsatile LPS increased the tissue or circulating levels of FGF23. However, acute on chronic LPS raised tissue FGF23 mRNA and both circulating cFG23 and iFGF23. Interestingly, the spleen was the major source of FGF23.

Conclusion

Acute on chronic exposure to LPS stimulates FGF23 production in a normal mouse model of inflammation. We provide the first evidence that the spleen, under these conditions, contributes substantially to elevated circulating FGF23 levels.

Role of Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 in Innate Immune Responses

Fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) is a bone-derived hormone that activates FGFR/α-Klotho binary complexes in the kidney renal tubules to regulate phosphate reabsorption and vitamin D metabolism. The objective of this review is to discuss the emerging data that show that FGF-23 has functions beyond regulation of mineral metabolism, including roles in innate immune and hemodynamic responses. Excess FGF-23 is associated with inflammation and adverse infectious outcomes, as well as increased morbidity and mortality, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease. Enhancer elements in the FGF-23 promoter have been identified that mediate the effects of inflammatory cytokines to stimulate FGF-23 gene transcription in bone. In addition, inflammation induces ectopic expression of FGF-23 and α-Klotho in macrophages that do not normally express FGF-23 or its binary receptor complexes. These observations suggest that FGF-23 may play an important role in regulating innate immunity through multiple potential mechanisms. Circulating FGF-23 acts as a counter-regulatory hormone to suppress 1,25D production in the proximal tubule of the kidney. Since vitamin D deficiency may predispose infectious and cardiovascular diseases, FGF-23 effects on innate immune responses may be due to suppression of 1,25D production. Alternatively, systemic and locally produced FGF-23 may modulate immune functions through direct interactions with myeloid cells, including macrophages and polymorphonuclear leukocytes to impair immune cell functions. Short-acting small molecules that reversibly inhibit FGF-23 offer the potential to block pro-inflammatory and cardiotoxic effects of FGF-23 with less side effects compared with FGF-23 blocking antibodies that have the potential to cause hyperphosphatemia and soft tissue calcifications in animal models. In conclusion, there are several mechanisms by which FGF-23 impacts the innate immune system and further investigation is critical for the development of therapies to treat diseases associated with elevated FGF-23.

Reduced kidney function is associated with BMD, bone loss and markers of mineral homeostasis in older women: a 10-year longitudinal study

Kidney function decreases with age; however, the long-term influence on bone density (BMD) in older women already at risk of osteoporosis is unknown. We followed kidney function and bone loss for 10 years. Declining kidney function was adversely associated with bone loss and mineral homeostasis in old women, though it attenuated with advanced aging.

INTRODUCTION

Existing studies do not fully address the relationship between kidney function and bone metabolism with advanced aging in Caucasian women. This study describes the association between kidney function, BMD, bone loss and bone metabolism in older women and provides a review of the available literature for context.

METHODS

We studied participants from the OPRA cohort with follow-up after 5 and 10 years. Using plasma cystatin C (cysC), estimated glomerular function rate (eGFR) was evaluated at age 75 (n = 981), 80 (n = 685) and 85 (n = 365). Women were stratified into "normal" function (CKD stages 1-2), "intermediate" (stage 3a) and "poor" (stages 3b-5), and outcome measures-BMD, bone loss and markers of mineral homeostasis-were compared.

RESULTS

Femoral neck (FN) BMD positively associated with kidney function at 75 years old ([Formula: see text] = 0.001, p = 0.028) and 80 years old ([Formula: see text] = 0.001, p = 0.001), although with small effect size. Prevalence of osteoporosis (FN T-score ≤ - 2.5) did not differ with kidney function. Measured at age 75, women with poor kidney function had higher annual percentage bone loss over 5 years compared to those with normal function (2.3%, 95% CI 1.8-2.8 versus 1.3%, 95% CI 1.1-1.5, p = 0.007), although not when measured from age 80 or 85. Additionally, markers of mineral homeostasis (PTH, phosphate, vitamin D, calcium), CRP and osteocalcin differed by kidney function.

CONCLUSIONS

In old women, kidney function is associated with BMD, bone loss and altered mineral homeostasis; probably, a relationship attenuated in the very elderly.

Serum fibroblast growth factor-23 and incident hypertension: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study

OBJECTIVE

Elevated serum fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23), an endogenous hormone, is associated with disturbed mineral homeostasis, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. It is unclear whether FGF23 impacts the development of incident hypertension. We examined the association between elevated FGF23 and incident hypertension in a community-based cohort.

METHOD

We investigated the association of serum FGF23, measured at baseline (1990-1992), with incident hypertension at two follow-up visits (1993-1995 and 1996-1998) in 7948 middle-aged men and women without hypertension at baseline participating in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. Incident hypertension was determined by measured blood pressure (DBP ≥ 90 mmHg or SBP ≥ 140 mmHg) and/or self-reported hypertension medication use at follow-up exams. Complementary log-log models that accounted for interval censoring were used to model the association between FGF23 and incident hypertension.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 5.9 years, 27% (2152/7948) participants developed hypertension. A nonlinear association between serum FGF23 and incident hypertension was observed; only persons in the highest decile of serum FGF23 had an increased risk of incident hypertension. After adjustment for demographics, behaviors, and adiposity, the hazard ratio for incident hypertension was 1.24 (95% confidence interval: 1.11, 1.39) for the highest decile of FGF23 compared with the lowest quintile. The association was further attenuated in the final model after adjusting for renal function (hazard ratio: 1.21, 95% confidence interval: 1.08, 1.35).

CONCLUSION

High levels (≥60.6 pg/ml) of FGF23 are associated with a modestly increased risk of incident hypertension in the general population, independent of kidney function.

Fibroblast Growth Factor 23, Mineral Metabolism, and Adiposity in Normal Kidney Function

Context

Obesity is associated with poor bone mineralization and quality. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) plays an important role in skeletal physiology.

Objective

To test hypothesis that greater adiposity results in higher FGF23 levels among individuals with normal estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Design, Setting, Participants

Cross-sectional analyses among participants with eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73m2. We assessed the association between crude [body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR); n = 5610] and refined (abdominal adipose tissue area by computed tomography; n = 1313) measures of adiposity and FGF23 using multivariable linear regression.

Main Outcome Measure

Serum FGF23.

Results

FGF23 was higher across BMI categories (BMI <25: 37.7; BMI 25 to 29.99: 38.7; BMI 30 to 39.99: 39.8; BMI ≥40: 40.9 pg/mL, unadjusted P trend < 0.0001). The association between BMI and FGF23 was independent of known confounders of FGF23 (adjusted β = +7.2% higher FGF23 per 10 kg/m2; P < 0.0001). Similar results were observed using WC and WHR. Abdominal adipose tissue area was also independently associated with higher FGF23 (P < 0.01). Notably, the positive associations between FGF23 and adiposity were observed despite the fact that eGFR did not decline and serum phosphate levels did not increase with adiposity.

Conclusion

In a large cohort with normal kidney function, adiposity was associated with higher FGF23 levels independent of known confounders, including eGFR and phosphate. Further studies are needed to evaluate the causes of higher FGF23 in settings of greater adiposity and the potential impact on skeletal health.

Ironing out the cross talk between FGF23 and inflammation

The bone-secreted hormone fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) has an essential role in phosphate homeostasis by regulating expression of the kidney proximal tubule sodium-phosphate cotransporters as well as parathyroid hormone levels. Induction of FGF23 early in chronic kidney disease (CKD) helps to maintain normal phosphorous levels. However, high FGF23 levels become pathological as kidney disease progresses and are associated with an increased risk of CKD progression, cardiovascular events, and death. The factors responsible for increasing FGF23 levels early in CKD are unknown, but recent work has proposed a role for inflammation and disordered iron homeostasis. Notably, FGF23 has recently been shown to elicit an inflammatory response and to display immunomodulatory properties. Here, we will review emerging evidence on the cross talk between inflammation, iron, FGF23, and bone and mineral metabolism and discuss the relevance for CKD patients.

Inflammation and elevated levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 are independent risk factors for death in chronic kidney disease

Inflammation is a consequence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is associated with adverse outcomes in many clinical settings. Inflammation stimulates production of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), high levels of which are independently associated with mortality in CKD. Few large-scale prospective studies have examined inflammation and mortality in patients with CKD, and none tested the interrelationships among inflammation, FGF23, and risk of death. Therefore, we conducted a prospective investigation of 3875 participants in the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC) study with CKD stages 2 to 4 to test the associations of baseline plasma interleukin-6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and FGF23 levels with all-cause mortality, censoring at the onset of end-stage renal disease. During a median follow-up of 6.9 years, 550 participants died (20.5/1000 person-years) prior to end-stage renal disease. In separate multivariable-adjusted analyses, higher levels of interleukin-6 (hazard ratio per one standard deviation increase of natural log-transformed levels) 1.35 (95% confidence interval, 1.25-1.46), C-reactive protein 1.28 (1.16-1.40), and FGF23 1.45 (1.32-1.60) were each independently associated with increased risk of death. With further adjustment for FGF23, the risks of death associated with interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein were minimally attenuated. Compared to participants in the lowest quartiles of inflammation and FGF23, the multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio of death among those in the highest quartiles of both biomarkers was 4.38 (2.65-7.23) for interleukin-6 and FGF23, and 5.54 (3.04-10.09) for C-reactive protein and FGF23. Thus, elevated levels of interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, and FGF23 are independent risk factors for mortality in CKD.

Fibroblast growth factor 23 directly targets hepatocytes to promote inflammation in chronic kidney disease

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) develop increased levels of the phosphate-regulating hormone, fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 23, that are associated with a higher risk of mortality. Increases in inflammatory markers are another common feature that predicts poor clinical outcomes. Elevated FGF23 is associated with higher circulating levels of inflammatory cytokines in CKD, which can stimulate osteocyte production of FGF23. Here, we studied whether FGF23 can directly stimulate hepatic production of inflammatory cytokines in the absence of α-klotho, an FGF23 coreceptor in the kidney that is not expressed by hepatocytes. By activating FGF receptor isoform 4 (FGFR4), FGF23 stimulated calcineurin signaling in cultured hepatocytes, which increased the expression and secretion of inflammatory cytokines, including C-reactive protein. Elevating serum FGF23 levels increased hepatic and circulating levels of C-reactive protein in wild-type mice, but not in FGFR4 knockout mice. Administration of an isoform-specific FGFR4 blocking antibody reduced hepatic and circulating levels of C-reactive protein in the 5/6 nephrectomy rat model of CKD. Thus, FGF23 can directly stimulate hepatic secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Our findings indicate a novel mechanism of chronic inflammation in patients with CKD and suggest that FGFR4 blockade might have therapeutic anti-inflammatory effects in CKD.

Association of physical fitness, body composition, cardiometabolic markers and adherence to the Mediterranean diet with bone mineral density in perimenopausal women. The FLAMENCO project

This study aimed to analyse the association of different components of physical fitness, body composition, cardiometabolic markers and the Mediterranean diet with bone mineral density (BMD) in perimenopausal women, and to test which of these components are independently associated with BMD. The sample comprised 197 perimenopausal women (52.6 ± 4.5 years). Physical fitness was assessed with the "Senior Fitness Test" battery and the handgrip strength and Bruce tests. Fat and lean mass and BMD were measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. We analysed the markers of metabolic syndrome, C-reactive protein, and components of the Mediterranean diet. Handgrip muscle strength (β = 0.212, P = 0.005), body weight (β = 0.244, P = 0.001), BMI (β = 0.180, P = 0.011) and lean mass (β = 0.379, P < 0.001) were positively associated with BMD. No associations were observed between cardiometabolic markers or the Mediterranean diet with BMD (all P > 0.05). When all relevant indicators of BMD were simultaneously considered, lean mass was the only 1 showing an independent association with BMD (β = 0.392, P < 0.001), explaining 14% of the BMD variability. In conclusion, muscle strength might be a marker of BMD in perimenopausal women. However, lean mass was the only factor independently associated with BMD. Future research to determine whether increasing lean mass through specific exercise-based interventions contributes to increasing BMD is warranted.

Associations of FGF23 With Change in Bone Mineral Density and Fracture Risk in Older Individuals

Elevated levels of the phosphate-regulating hormone fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) have been linked to greater risk of fractures in some studies, especially among individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We evaluated FGF23 as a risk factor for bone loss and fractures in the Health, Aging, and Body Composition (Health ABC) study, which is a prospective biracial cohort of well-functioning adults aged 70 to 79 years recruited at two clinical centers in the United States. The sample for the bone mineral density (BMD) analyses consisted of 2234 participants who had at least two serial total hip areal BMD measures. The fracture analyses included 2786 participants, 567 of whom sustained a fracture during a median follow up of 4.95 years. Linear mixed-effects models were used for longitudinal measurements of total hip areal BMD and the proportional subdistribution hazard regression model subject to competing risks of death was used for risk of fracture. The median FGF23 was 46.7 (interquartile range [IQR] 36.7 to 60.2) pg/mL. The mean annualized percent change in total hip areal BMD did not vary significantly according to FGF23 quartile in all participants (p for trend = 0.70), but the effect was modified by CKD status (adjusted p for interaction <0.001). Among participants with CKD, the unadjusted mean annualized percent change in total hip areal BMD was greater with higher levels of FGF23 (unadjusted p for trend = 0.02), but the trend was attenuated with adjustment for estimated glomerular filtration rate and parathyroid hormone (adjusted p for trend = 0.30). FGF23 was not significantly associated with fracture risk in crude (hazard ratio [HR] per doubling of FGF23, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.85 to 1.12) or adjusted models (HR per doubling of FGF23, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.86 to 1.22), and these findings were not modified by gender or CKD status. FGF23 levels are not associated with bone loss or fracture risk in older adults with low prevalence of CKD.

Bone Density Is Directly Associated With Glomerular Filtration and Metabolic Acidosis but Do Not Predict Fragility Fractures in Men With Moderate Chronic Kidney Disease

Hyperparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, increased fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23), and metabolic acidosis promote bone fragility in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Although useful in predicting fracture risk in the general population, the role of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in CKD remains uncertain. This cross-sectional study included 51 men aged 50-75 yr with moderate CKD. The stage 4 CKD patients had higher levels of parathyroid hormone (p<0.001), FGF-23 (p=0.029), and lowest 25-hydroxyvitamin D (p=0.016), bicarbonate (p<0.001), total femur (p=0.003), and femoral neck (p=0.011) T-scores compared with stage 3 CKD patients. Total femur and femoral neck T-scores were directly correlated with serum bicarbonate (p=0.003, r=0.447 and p=0.005, r=0.427, respectively) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (p=0.024, r=0.325 and p=0.003, r=0.313, respectively) but were not significantly associated with parathyroid hormone, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, or FGF-23. Only 3.9% of the participants had osteoporosis on DXA scan, whereas 31.4% reported a low-impact fracture. Our data point to a pivotal role of metabolic acidosis for bone impairment and to the inadequacy of DXA to evaluate bone fragility in CKD patients.

Inflammation and functional iron deficiency regulate fibroblast growth factor 23 production

Circulating levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) are elevated in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), but the mechanisms are poorly understood. Here we tested whether inflammation and iron deficiency regulate FGF23. In wild-type mice, acute inflammation induced by single injections of heat-killed Brucella abortus or interleukin-1β (IL-1β) decreased serum iron within 6 h, and was accompanied by significant increases in osseous Fgf23 mRNA expression and serum levels of C-terminal FGF23, but no changes in intact FGF23. Chronic inflammation induced by repeated bacteria or IL-1β injections decreased serum iron, increased osseous Fgf23 mRNA, and serum C-terminal FGF23, but modestly increased biologically active, intact FGF23 serum levels. Chronic iron deficiency mimicked chronic inflammation. Increased osseous FGF23 cleavage rather than a prolonged half-life of C-terminal FGF23 fragments accounted for the elevated C-terminal FGF23 but near-normal intact FGF23 levels in inflammation. IL-1β injection increased Fgf23 mRNA and C-terminal FGF23 levels similarly in wildtype and Col4a3(ko) mice with CKD but markedly increased intact FGF23 levels only in the CKD mice. Inflammation increased Fgf23 transcription by activating Hif1α signaling. Thus, inflammation and iron deficiency stimulate FGF23 production. Simultaneous upregulation of FGF23 cleavage in osteocytes maintains near-normal levels of biologically active, intact circulating FGF23, whereas downregulated or impaired FGF23 cleavage may contribute to elevated intact serum FGF23 in CKD.

Serum Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 (FGF23) in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Objective Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease accompanied by periarticular and systemic osteoporosis. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), which is mainly produced by osteocytes, circulates to the kidneys and regulates bone metabolism. We herein assessed serum FGF23 and its relationship to inflammation and osteoporosis in patients with RA. Methods Sixty-one patients with RA were included. Serum concentrations of FGF23 were determined using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results The mean (± standard deviation) serum FGF23 concentration was 34.9±9.2 (range, 21.0-61.0) pg/mL. The serum FGF23 level was significantly and positively correlated with the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, disease activity score-28 based on the ESR (DAS-28 ESR) and DAS-28 CRP (r=0.261, p=0.044, r=0.280, p=0.029, r=0.409, p=0.001 and r=0.421, p=0.001, respectively). The serum matrix metalloproteinase-3 level was also significantly and positively correlated with the serum FGF23 level (r=0.331, p=0.015). Concentrations of type I collagen cross-linked N-telopeptide in the serum was significantly correlated with the serum FGF23 level (r=0.272, p=0.034). Neither the bone mineral density in the femoral neck nor lumbar was significantly correlated with the serum FGF23 level. Serum phosphate, calcium, 25-hydroxy vitamin D, and intact parathyroid hormone were not related to the serum FGF23 level. Conclusion In patients with RA, serum FGF23 is correlated with inflammation, the disease activity of RA, and bone absorption markers. Serum FGF23 may be associated with abnormal bone absorption related to RA inflammation. Further studies are necessary to clarify the mechanism underlying this association.

Relationship between Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 and Biochemical and Bone Histomorphometric Alterations in a Chronic Kidney Disease Rat Model Undergoing Parathyroidectomy

Background

Phosphate burden in chronic kidney disease (CKD) leads to elevated serum fibroblast factor-23 (FGF-23) levels, secondary hyperparathyroidism and chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD). However dissociated hyperphosphatemia and low serum FGF-23 concentrations have been observed in experimentally parathyoridectomized rats. The relationships between serum mineral, hormone, and bone metabolism may be altered in the presence of CKD. The aim of our study was to investigate whether a consistent relationship existed between serum FGF-23 levels, specific serum biochemical markers, and histomorphometric parameters of bone metabolism in a parathyroidectomized CKD animal model.

Results

Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 3 groups: parathyroidectomy (PTX) and CKD (PTX+CKD, 9 rats), CKD without PTX (CKD, 9 rats), and neither PTX nor CKD (sham-operated control, 8 rats); CKD was induced by partial nephrectomy. At 8 weeks after partial nephrectomy, serum biomarkers were measured. Bone histomorphometries of the distal femoral metaphyseal bone were analyzed. The mean serum FGF-23 levels and mean bone formation rate were the highest in the CKD group and the lowest in the PTX+CKD group. Bone volume parameters increased significantly in the PTX+CKD group. Pearson’s correlation revealed that serum FGF-23 levels associated with those of intact parathyroid hormone, phosphate, collagen type I C-telopeptide, and calcium. Univariate linear regression showed that serum FGF-23 values correlated with bone formation rate, bone volume, and osteoid parameters. Stepwise multivariate regression analysis revealed that circulating FGF-23 values were independently associated with bone volume and thickness (β = -0.737; p < 0.001 and β = -0.526; p = 0.006, respectively). Serum parathyroid hormone levels independently correlated with bone formation rate (β = 0.714; p < 0.001) while collagen type I C-telopeptide levels correlated with osteoid parameter.

Conclusion

Serum FGF-23 levels independently correlated with bone volume parameters in rats with experimentally induced CKD.

Relationship of fibroblast growth factor 23 and fetuin--A to coronary atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND

Serum fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) and fetuin-A are established predictors of morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular disease. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the relationship between coronary artery disease (CAD) and serum concentrations of FGF-23 and fetuin-A.

METHODS

A total of 383 subjects who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) were included in the study. CCTA detected CAD in 208 patients; the rest of the patients had no detectable CAD.

RESULTS

Serum FGF-23 and fetuin-A levels were significantly increased in CAD patients compared to non-CAD patients (26.6±21.1pg/mL vs. 17.9±16.1pg/mL, p=0.001 and 826±350mg/L vs. 595±300mg/L, p<0.001, respectively). Serum FGF-23, fetuin-A, low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, and uric acid values were elevated in non-diabetic patients with CAD when compared to those without CAD. FGF-23, and fetuin-A were not significantly different in diabetic patients with CAD when compared to those without CAD. Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, we found that age, hypertension, LDL-Cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-Cholesterol, hs-CRP, uric acid, FGF-23 and fetuin-A levels were independently associated with the presence of CAD.

CONCLUSION

FGF-23 and fetuin-A were positively correlated with coronary atherosclerosis Similar trends were seen among diabetic patients, but this did not reach statistical significance. FGF-23 and fetuin-A could be used as novel risk markers of cardiovascular disease.

Associations of fibroblast growth factor-23 with markers of inflammation, insulin resistance and obesity in adults

Introduction

Elevated fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23) is an established marker of cardiovascular disease. The underlying reason(s) for the rise accompanying cardiovascular health decline are unclear. Prior studies have shown that FGF23 concentrations are associated with markers of inflammation and insulin resistance but they have been limited by a focus on persons with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and lack of race and sex diversity. The objective of this study was to examine the associations of FGF23 and markers of inflammation, insulin resistance, and anthropometrics in a large cohort of community-dwelling adults.

Methods

Associations of FGF23 with markers of inflammation [interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, high sensitivity-CRP (hsCRP)], insulin utilization [resistin, adiponectin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)] and anthropometrics [BMI and waist circumference (WC)] were examined cross-sectionally in a 1,040 participants randomly selected from the Reason for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) Study, a national study of black and white adults ≥45 years. Effect modification by race and CKD status was tested, and stratified models were analyzed accordingly.

Results

Median FGF23 concentration was 69.6 RU/ml (IQR: 53.2, 102.7). Higher quartiles of FGF23 were associated with higher mean concentrations of IL-6, IL-10, hsCRP and resistin (P_trend<0.001 for all). There were no significant differences in HOMA-IR, adiponectin concentrations, BMI, or WC across FGF23 quartiles in the crude analyses. CKD significantly modified the relationships between FGF23 and inflammatory markers, HOMA-IR, BMI and WC (P ≤ 0.01 for all). In linear regression models adjusted for sociodemographic and clinical variables, FGF23 was positively associated with IL-6, hsCRP, IL-10, HOMA-IR, BMI and WC in individuals without CKD, but not among individuals with CKD. Additionally, FGF23 was positively associated with resistin irrespective of CKD status.

Conclusions

Elevated FGF23 concentrations may be considered a biomarker for decline in metabolic function among individuals with normal kidney function.

Fibroblast growth factor 23 and incident CKD in type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

High levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 are associated with accelerated progression of CKD. Whether high fibroblast growth factor 23 levels also predict incident CKD is uncertain.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

A prospective case-cohort study was conducted within the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Trial. The analytic sample consisted of a random subcohort of 590 patients with type 2 diabetes without prevalent CKD at baseline, 124 of whom developed incident CKD during follow-up, and 520 additional patients with incident CKD outside the random subcohort. The association between serum intact fibroblast growth factor 23 and incident CKD, defined as the new onset of eGFR<60 ml/min per 1.73 m(2) that represented a ≥25% decrease from baseline in an individual with eGFR≥60 ml/min per 1.73 m(2) and no microalbuminuria (<30 mg/g creatinine) at baseline, was tested.

RESULTS

The mean baseline eGFR in the random subcohort was 90.9±22.7 ml/min per 1.73 m(2). During a median follow-up of 4.7 years, there was a total of 644 patients with incident CKD. The median baseline fibroblast growth factor 23 level was modestly higher among patients with incident CKD versus controls (43.5, interquartile range=34.7-55.1 versus 39.8, interquartile range=31.9-49.5 pg/ml; P<0.001). Higher baseline fibroblast growth factor 23 levels were associated with higher risk of incident CKD in unadjusted and demographics-adjusted models, but the effect was attenuated after additional adjustment for clinical risk factors and baseline eGFR (hazard ratio per SD of natural log fibroblast growth factor 23, 1.09; 95% confidence interval, 0.94 to 1.27), which was the strongest predictor of incident CKD. Consistent with the results of primary analyses, baseline fibroblast growth factor 23 was not associated with eGFR slope.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher fibroblast growth factor 23 levels are not independently associated with higher risk of incident CKD in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Fibroblast growth factor-23 and incident atrial fibrillation: the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) and the Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS)

BACKGROUND

Fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) is a hormone that promotes urinary phosphate excretion and regulates vitamin D metabolism. Circulating FGF-23 concentrations increase markedly in chronic kidney disease and are associated with increased risk of clinical cardiovascular events. FGF-23 may promote atrial fibrillation (AF) by inducing left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic and left atrial dysfunction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We tested the associations of circulating FGF-23 concentration with incident AF among 6398 participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) and 1350 participants in the Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS), all free of clinical cardiovascular disease at baseline. Over a median of 7.7 and 8.0 years of follow-up, we observed 291 and 229 incident AF events in MESA and CHS, respectively. In multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, each 2-fold-higher FGF-23 concentration was associated with a 41% higher risk of incident AF in MESA (hazard ratio, 1.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.13-1.76; P=0.003) and a 30% higher risk of incident AF in CHS (hazard ratio, 1.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-1.61; P=0.016) after adjustment for potential confounding characteristics, including kidney disease. Serum phosphate concentration was significantly associated with incident AF in MESA (hazard ratio, 1.15 per 0.5 mg/dL; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.31; P=0.023) but not CHS. In MESA, an association of low estimated glomerular filtration rate with incident AF was partially attenuated by adjustment for FGF-23.

CONCLUSION

Higher circulating FGF-23 concentration is associated with incident AF and may, in part, explain the link between chronic kidney disease and AF.

Fibroblast growth factor-23 and incident coronary heart disease, heart failure, and cardiovascular mortality: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study

BACKGROUND

Fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) is a hormone involved in phosphorous regulation and vitamin D metabolism that may be associated with cardiovascular risk, and it is a potential target for intervention. We tested whether elevated FGF-23 is associated with incident coronary heart disease, heart failure, and cardiovascular mortality, even at normal kidney function.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 11 638 Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities study participants, median age 57 at baseline (1990-1992), were followed through 2010. Cox regression was used to evaluate the independent association of baseline serum active FGF-23 with incident outcomes. Models were adjusted for traditional cardiovascular risk factors and estimated glomerular filtration rate. During a median follow-up of 18.6 years, 1125 participants developed coronary heart disease, 1515 developed heart failure, and 802 died of cardiovascular causes. For all 3 outcomes, there was a threshold, whereby FGF-23 was not associated with risk at <40 pg/mL but was positively associated with risk at >40 pg/mL. Compared with those with FGF-23 <40 pg/mL, those in the highest FGF-23 category (≥ 58.8 pg/mL) had a higher risk of incident coronary heart disease (adjusted hazard ratio, 95% CIs: 1.65, 1.40 to 1.94), heart failure (1.75, 1.52 to 2.01), and cardiovascular mortality (1.65, 1.36 to 2.01). Associations were modestly attenuated but remained statistically significant after further adjustment for estimated glomerular filtration rate. In stratified analyses, similar results were observed in African Americans and among persons with normal kidney function.

CONCLUSIONS

High levels of serum FGF-23 were associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease, heart failure, and cardiovascular mortality in this large, biracial, population-based cohort. This association was independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors and kidney function.

Folate receptor alpha, mesothelin and megakaryocyte potentiating factor as potential serum markers of chronic kidney disease

Renal disease is the eighth leading cause of death in the United States. Early diagnosis is usually based on the detection of proteinuria or elevated serum creatinine, a relatively poor biomarker that does not accurately predict renal disease progression. As a result, more predictive biomarkers of renal function are sought. We present preliminary data on three protein biomarkers, folate receptor alpha (FRA), mesothelin (MSLN), and megakaryocyte potentiating factor (MPF), currently being pursued for applications in oncology diagnostics, and evaluate serum and urine levels in subjects with renal disease. Compared to healthy subjects, a significant (P < 0.0001) increase in all three biomarkers in both serum and urine of subjects with renal disease was demonstrated. Further, serum levels of these three protein biomarkers increased with increasing stage of disease suggesting their potential value in predicting progression in subjects with renal disease and raising caution in interpretation of data in oncology applications.

Effect of cholecalciferol recommended daily allowances on vitamin D status and fibroblast growth factor-23: an observational study in acute burn patients

OBJECTIVE

Burn patients are at risk of hypovitaminosis D. Optimal vitamin D (VD) intakes are not defined in burn nutrition guidelines and studies mostly focused on ergocalciferol (VD2) supplementation in burn children. Aim of our study was to describe adult burns VD status, to measure effects of our cholecalciferol (VD3) supplementation on VD metabolism during acute burn care, and to assess correlation between FGF23 and C-reactive protein (CRP).

DESIGN

Cohort study.

METHODS

From March 2012 to January 2013, patients >18 years, admitted within 24 h after injury with burn surface area (BSA) ≥10% were included. Patients daily received VD3 from oral or enteral nutrition (400-600 IU) and from oral or intravenous multivitamin complex (200-220 IU). Serum levels of 25(OH)-D, 1-25(OH)2-D, 3rd generation PTH, C-terminal FGF23, total calcium, phosphate, albumin and CRP were measured at admission (D0) and every week during 4 weeks of follow-up. Data are expressed as percentage or median (min-max). Paired data were compared using Wilcoxon test. Correlation between CRP and FGF23 was assessed using nonparametric Spearman test. A p value <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

We initially included 24 patients. Median age and BSA were, respectively, 46 [19-86] years and 15 [10-85]%. At D0, 75% presented a VD insufficiency (25(OH)-D 21-29 ng/ml) and 17% presented a deficiency (25(OH)-D ≤20 ng/ml). We followed 12 patients until day 28: 25(OH)-D was unchanged while 1-25(OH)2-D and FGF23 decreased without reaching significance. We observed a significant positive correlation between FGF23 and CRP (r=0.59, 95% CI: 0.22-0.82, p=0.0032).

CONCLUSIONS

Most of our adult burns presented hypovitaminosis D regardless of age. Nutrition supplemented with low dose of VD3 (intakes reaching recommended daily allowances) was insufficient to correct 25(OH)-D level. Moreover, an interesting correlation between CRP and FGF23 was found.

The Association between Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 and Vascular Calcification Is Mitigated by Inflammation Markers

BACKGROUND

Fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) has been linked to vascular calcification, ventricular hypertrophy and mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD), although these links may not be direct and independent. Similar grave outcomes are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress in CKD. Recently, accumulating evidence has linked components of phosphate homeostasis to inflammation and oxidative stress. The interaction between the triad of inflammation, FGF-23 and cardiovascular outcomes is underinvestigated.

METHODS

We studied 65 patients with stage 5 CKD on hemodialysis. Serum levels of FGF-23, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), endogenous soluble receptor of advanced glycation end products (esRAGE), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), parathormone, lipids, calcium and phosphorous were measured. The aortic calcification index (ACI) was determined using non-contrast CT scans of the abdominal aorta.

RESULTS

FGF-23 was elevated (mean: 4,681 pg/ml, SD: 3,906) and correlated with hsCRP, esRAGE, AOPP, dialysis vintage and phosphorus in univariate analysis. In multiple regression analysis, hsCRP, AOPP and phosphorus but not esRAGE were all significantly correlated to FGF-23 (R² = 0.7, p < 0.001). In univariate analysis, ACI correlated with hsCRP, esRAGE, FGF-23, dialysis vintage, systolic blood pressure (BP) and serum cholesterol. In multiple regression analysis not including inflammation markers, ACI was associated with FGF-23. However, inclusion of inflammation markers in another multiple regression analyses showed that ACI correlated with hsCRP, BP, dialysis vintage and esRAGE but not with FGF-23 (R² = 0.65, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

FGF-23 is strongly correlated to various markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in hemodialysis patients. The association between FGF-23 and vascular calcification was mitigated when corrected for inflammation markers.

IGF-1 and survival in ESRD

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

IGF-1 deficiency links to malnutrition in CKD patients; however, it is not clear to what extent it associates with survival among these patients.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

Serum IGF-1 and other biochemical, clinical (subjective global assessment), and densitometric (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry) markers of nutritional status and mineral and bone metabolism were measured in a cohort of 365 Swedish clinically stable CKD stage 5 patients (median age of 53 years) initiating dialysis between 1994 and 2009; in 207 patients, measurements were also taken after 1 year of dialysis. Deaths were registered during a median follow-up of 5 years. Associations of mortality with baseline IGF-1 and changes of IGF-1 after 1 year of dialysis were evaluated by Cox models.

RESULTS

At baseline, IGF-1 concentrations associated negatively with age, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, poor nutritional status, IL-6, and osteoprotegerin and positively with body fat mass, bone mineral density, serum phosphate, calcium, and fibroblast growth factor-23. At 1 year, IGF-1 had increased by 33%. In multivariate regression, low age, diabetes mellitus, and high serum phosphate and calcium associated with IGF-1 at baseline, and in a mixed model, these factors, together with high fat body mass, associated with changes of IGF-1 during the first 1 year of dialysis. Adjusting for calendar year of inclusion, age, sex, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, IL-6, and poor nutritional status, a 1 SD higher level of IGF-1 at baseline associated with lower mortality risk (hazard ratio, 0.57; 95% confidence interval, 0.32 to 0.98). Persistently low or decreasing IGF-1 levels during the first 1 year on dialysis predicted worse survival (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.19; 95% confidence interval, 1.06 to 4.50).

CONCLUSION

In incident dialysis patients, low serum IGF-1 associates with body composition and markers of mineral and bone metabolism, and it predicts increased mortality risk.

Comparison of mineral metabolites as risk factors for adverse clinical outcomes in CKD

Patients with chronic kidney disease are at increased risk for progressing to end-stage renal disease, developing cardiovascular disease, and dying prematurely. Recent evidence has suggested that disordered mineral metabolism, which includes hyperphosphatemia, secondary hyperparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, and fibroblast growth factor 23 excess, may contribute to the high rates of adverse outcomes in this population. However, marked within-subject variability for some of these biochemical parameters exists, potentially detracting from the utility of certain metabolites as prognostic tools. This review summarizes the available data on the epidemiology of phosphate, parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, and fibroblast growth factor 23, and their relationships with adverse clinical outcomes in chronic kidney disease, compares the performance of each as a biomarker of risk and introduces recent insights into the pathophysiology behind some of the observed relationships.

The relationship between intact PTH and biointact PTH (1-84) with bone and mineral metabolism in pre-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD)

OBJECTIVES

Abnormalities in PTH are implicated in the pathogenesis of bone abnormalities in chronic kidney disease (CKD)-mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD). PTH concentrations are important in clinical decision and management. This emphasises the importance of providing an assay which measures biologically active PTH. We compared concentrations of intact PTH with biointact PTH (1-84) in CKD and end stage renal disease (ESRD) and investigated the relationship between the 2 PTH assays with bone and mineral laboratory parameters and bone mineral density (BMD) in CKD.

DESIGN AND METHODS

We assessed 140 patients (61 in ESRD and 79 with CKD stages 1-4) in this cross-sectional study. We measured biointact PTH (1-84) as well as routine biochemical parameters on all subjects. In the CKD cohort, bone turnover markers; bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP) and tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP)-5b and bone mineral density (BMD) were also determined.

RESULTS

In ESRD, intact PTH concentration was significantly higher compared to biointact PTH (1-84) (422 [443] v/s 266 [251] pg/mL, (p<0.001) with an average bias of 60%. In CKD, intact PTH concentration was also higher compared to biointact PTH (1-84) (79[55] v/s 68[49] pg/mL p<0.001) with an average bias of 18%. Only the biointact PTH (1-84) assay showed any significant correlation with serum calcium concentrations (r=-0.26, p<0.05) and phosphate (r=0.25, p<0.05) in CKD. Following multilinear regression analysis and adjustment for all significant co-variables, only eGFR, BAP and 25 (OH)vitamin remained significantly associated with intact PTH and biointact PTH (1-84). The strength of association was stronger between BAP and biointact PTH (1-84) (biointact PTH (1-84): p=0.007, intact PTH: p=0.01). In adjusted analyses, only biointact PTH (1-84) was significantly associated with BMD at the fore-arm (FARM) (p=0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

The study confirms the differences between intact PTH and biointact PTH (1-84) in ESRD. Whilst there may be similarities in the diagnostic ability of both intact and biointact PTH (1-84), our data suggest that biointact PTH (1-84) assay may better reflect bone metabolism and BMD in CKD. Further longitudinal studies are needed.

Vitamin K status in chronic kidney disease: a report of a study and a mini-review

Hepatic vitamin K-dependent proteins (e.g., Factors II, VII, IX and X) form part of the clotting cascade. Factor II (FII)/Prothrombin incorporates 10 Glu residues on the N-terminal region that are γ-carboxylated to Gla residues by the action of γ-glutamyl carboxylase to confer biological activity. Vitamin K is also required for the normal function of Matrix Gla Protein (MGP)--one of several non-clotting-related extra-hepatic vitamin K-dependent proteins. MGP is known to have protective action against vascular calcification--indeed it is a powerful tissue-bound inhibitory mechanism and can be found in blood vessel walls. The mature protein is also dependent on activation by γ-glutamyl carboxylase enzyme to convert Glu residues in its amino acid sequence to Gla. This reaction can only take place when the enzyme is activated in the presence of vitamin K. It is of great potential interest to investigate whether subtle deficiencies of vitamin K may, through its effect on the action of MGP, be a contributing factor to vascular calcification in CKD patients, in whom CV disease is greatly accelerated and in whom vascular calcification is not only common, but progresses aggressively, and is something for which as yet there is no clinically applicable remedy.

Determinants of vitamin D status in long-term renal transplant patients

In this study, we explored the determinants of vitamin D status in a large cohort of stable, Long-term renal transplant (RTx) patients. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations, and bone biochemistry parameters, were retrospectively analyzed from 266 RTx patients (>10 yr post-engraftment) presenting to clinic over the course of a year. Forty-five percent of the cohort were vitamin D deficient (<37.5 nM), 38% insufficient (37.5 75-nM), and 17% sufficient (>75 nM). Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were higher in patients presenting in summer (p<0.001) and in more active patients (p<0.05). RTx patients with non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) (n=45) had higher 25(OH)D concentrations than patients without NMSC (n=221; p<0.05) despite these patients being older, having worse eGFR, transplanted for longer, and less active physically (p<0.05). Lower 25(OH)D concentrations were associated with higher PTH concentrations (p<0.05) which, in the setting of widespread hypovitaminosis, suggests that secondary hyperparathyroidism was common in this cohort. In conclusion, season and activity status are important determinants of vitamin D status. We report, for the first time, that NMSC is associated with higher 25(OH)D, probably through increased UV radiation exposure. Long-term RTx patients may benefit from oral vitamin D supplementation, but this requires a randomized controlled trial to confirm.

FGF23 is independently associated with vascular calcification but not bone mineral density in patients at various CKD stages

SUMMARY

The hormone fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is involved in mineral homeostasis but may also have a role in vascular calcification and bone mineralization. In a cohort of 142 patients with CKD stages 2-5D, plasma FGF23 was independently associated with aortic calcification but not with pulse wave velocity or bone mineral density.

INTRODUCTION

FGF23 is involved in mineral homeostasis but may also have a role in vascular calcification and bone mineralization. Previous studies related to FGF23 and vascular and bone outcomes have been restricted to dialysis patients. The aim of the present study was to establish whether or not plasma FGF23 is associated with aortic and coronary calcification, arterial stiffness, and bone mineral density in patients with early as well as late stages of CKD.

METHODS

In a cohort of 142 patients with CKD stages 2-5D, we made routine biochemistry and intact FGF23 determinations, and assessed aortic and coronary calcification, bone mineral density (BMD), and arterial stiffness by multislice spiral computed tomography and automated pulse wave velocity (PWV).

RESULTS

Plasma intact FGF23 levels were elevated in CKD patients; the elevation preceded that of serum phosphate in early-stage CKD. Patients with elevated FGF23 levels had higher aortic and coronary calcification scores than patients with lower FGF23 levels. Multivariate linear regression analysis indicated that only age (p < 0.001) and FGF23 (p = 0.008) were independently associated with aortic calcification score. Plasma FGF23 was neither associated with PWV nor with BMD.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that plasma FGF23 is an independent biomarker of vascular calcification in patients with various CKD stages including early stages. The association between vascular calcification and FGF23 levels appears to be independent of BMD. It remains to be seen whether this association is independent of bone turnover and bone mass.

Update on fibroblast growth factor 23 in chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a public health epidemic that affects millions of people worldwide. Presence of CKD predisposes individuals to high risks of end-stage renal disease, cardiovascular disease and premature death. Disordered phosphate homeostasis with elevated circulating levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is an early and pervasive complication of CKD. CKD is likely the most common cause of chronically elevated FGF23 levels, and the clinical condition in which levels are most markedly elevated. Although increases in FGF23 levels help maintain serum phosphate in the normal range in CKD, prospective studies in populations of pre-dialysis CKD, incident and prevalent end-stage renal disease, and kidney transplant recipients demonstrate that elevated FGF23 levels are independently associated with progression of CKD and development of cardiovascular events and mortality. It was originally thought that these observations were driven by elevated FGF23 acting as a highly sensitive biomarker of toxicity due to phosphate. However, FGF23 itself has now been shown to mediate “off-target,” direct, end-organ toxicity in the heart, which suggests that elevated FGF23 may be a novel mechanism of adverse outcomes in CKD. This report reviews recent advances in FGF23 biology relevant to CKD, the classical effects of FGF23 on mineral homeostasis, and the studies that established FGF23 excess as a biomarker and novel mechanism of cardiovascular disease. The report concludes with a critical review of the effects of different therapeutic strategies targeting FGF23 reduction and how these might be leveraged in a future randomized trial aimed at improving outcomes in CKD.