Circulating Levels of Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 in Hemodialysis Patients

Introduction:

Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 (FGF23) plays a crucial role in regulating phosphate metabolism and has been linked to cardiovascular complications in hemodialysis patients. A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Nephrology explores the cleavage characteristics of FGF23 and its implications for chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Study Overview:

Objective: To analyze the levels of FGF23 C-terminal (FGF23-CT) in hemodialysis patients and its correlation with inorganic phosphate (Pi) levels.

Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study conducted at three facilities.
  • Plasma samples from 97 hemodialysis patients and 16 healthy volunteers were analyzed.
  • Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure FGF23-CT and intact FGF23 (iFGF23) levels.

Key Findings:

  • FGF23-CT levels were significantly higher in hemodialysis patients (306 ± 206 ng/mL) compared to healthy volunteers (189 ± 121 ng/mL).
  • The iFGF23 to total FGF23 (i/t FGF23) ratio was elevated in hemodialysis patients (0.44 ± 0.28) versus healthy controls (0.03 ± 0.03).
  • A strong correlation was observed between serum Pi levels and i/t FGF23 ratios (p < 0.001, r = 0.52).

Broader Implications:

This study highlights the impaired cleavage of FGF23 in hemodialysis patients, likely due to hyperphosphatemia. The findings suggest that phosphate management could be a crucial factor in improving patient outcomes in CKD.

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