Matrix Gla Protein Expression in NRK-52E Cells Exposed to Oxalate and Calcium Oxalate Monohydrate Crystals

Purpose: Matrix Gla protein (MGP), a potent calcification inhibitor in extracellular matrix, is a molecular determinant regulating vascular calcification. Here, we characterized MGP expression in cultured renal tubular epithelial cells exposed to oxalate and calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) crystals. Methods: NRK-52E cells were cultured and exposed to medium containing oxalate or COM for 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 h. The levels of MGP mRNA expression were quantified using real-time PCR (RT-PCR), and the levels of protein expression were characterized by Western blot. Results: MGP was expressed rapidly and intensively following exposure to COM and was time-dependent with exposure to oxalate. Conclusion: Our results have given a profile of MGP expression in renal tubular epithelial cells exposed to oxalate and crystals and provided support for an association between MGP and kidney stones. Further investigations on the mechanism of the MGP in the process of crystal-cell interaction may be important in the future. Copyright (C) 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel