Published online Nov 26, 2015. doi: 10.4331/wjbc.v6.i4.351
Peer-review started: May 28, 2015
First decision: July 20, 2015
Revised: July 31, 2015
Accepted: September 7, 2015
Article in press: September 8, 2015
Published online: November 26, 2015
Processing time: 178 Days and 17.1 Hours
Protein Klotho, beyond its role as a regulator of the phosphatemia, is also involved in the maintaining of the cardiovascular health, being associated its alterations with the development of cardiovascular damage and increased morbi-mortality. For all this, nowadays Klotho is the subject of a thorough research which is focused on uncover its intimate mechanisms of action, and in analyzing the utility of its modulation as a potential strategy with clinical applicability. Molecular mechanisms of Klotho are not well understood but an emerging research area links Klotho deficiency with vascular pathology. Changes in this protein have been associated with cardiovascular-related complications like inflammation, vascular calcification, and endothelial dysfunction. All this is particularly relevant if considering the recent discovery of Klotho expression in vascular tissue.
Core tip: Protein Klotho, beyond its role as a regulator of the phosphatemia, has also been involved in the maintaining of the cardiovascular health. For all this, is the subject of a thorough research which focused on uncover its intimate mechanisms of action, and in analyzing the utility of its modulation as a potential strategy for clinical applicability. Emerging research links Klotho deficiency with vascular pathology. Changes in this protein have been associated, among others cardiovascular-related complications, with inflammation, vascular calcification, and endothelial dysfunction.