Magnesium deficiency and cardiovascular calcification in patients with chronic kidney disease: A critical view of the problem

Abstract

Based on current world science data, the potential pathogenetic role of magnesium (Mg) deficiency in cardiovascular calcification processes in chronic kidney disease (CKD) can be confirmed. It has been determined that Mg deficiency can lead to ectopic calcification by affecting the formation of hydroxyapatite crystals, calciprotein particles, and the osteogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and that the direct and indirect effects of Mg are closely associated with endothelial damage/dysfunction. It has been shown that the pathogenetic and integrative significance of Mg deficiency is observed at all stages of the cardiorenal continuum; it takes an active part in the development of arrhythmias, sudden coronary death, manifestations of heart failure, and is one of the key elements in the complex mechanism of cardiac dysfunction and atherosclerosis. It is concluded that large-scale randomized controlled trials are warranted to definitively assess the efficacy and safety of correcting Mg deficiency as a potential tool for slowing the progression of ectopic calcification, reducing cardiovascular risk, and improving prognosis in CKD patients.