Studies May Explain Link between FGF23 and Cardiovascular Risk in CKD Patients

Fibroblast growth factor‐23 (FGF23), a hormone that controls renal phosphate reabsorption and vitamin D synthesis in renal proximal tubules, also regulates renal sodium reabsorption and plasma volume, according to an EMBO Molecular Medicine study. Mice lacking FGF23 excreted higher amounts of sodium in their urine, resulting in low blood pressure, while animals with high FGF23 had high blood levels of sodium, and in turn, high blood pressure. Another study published by the group in EMBO revealed that FGF23 also controls calcium levels. Too much FGF23 leads to increased uptake of calcium by the kidneys, and results in vascular calcification.