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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
04:30
Investigating Aortic Valve Calcification via Isolation and Culture of T Lymphocytes using Feeder Cells from Irradiated Buffy Coat
Published on: February 4, 2021
Aortic valve calcification: determinants and progression in the population
David Messika-Zeitoun1, Lawrence F Bielak, Patricia A Peyser
1Division of Cardiovascular Diseases and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology
|December 23, 2006
Summary
Aortic valve calcification (AVC) is common in older adults and linked to atherosclerosis. This study shows AVC progresses over time and is associated with coronary artery disease (CAD).
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Radiology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Aortic valve calcification (AVC) was traditionally viewed as degenerative.
- Emerging evidence suggests a link between AVC and atherosclerosis, including coronary artery disease (CAD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence, progression, and association of AVC with CAD in an aging population.
- To identify risk factors for AVC development and progression.
Main Methods:
- Prospective assessment of AVC and coronary artery calcifications (CAC) using Electron-Beam-Computed-Tomography in 262 participants aged 60+.
- Follow-up assessment over 3.8 years to evaluate AVC and CAC progression.
Main Results:
- AVC was frequent (27%) and associated with aging, male sex, diabetes, hypertension, higher BMI, and serum glucose.
- AVC was a marker for higher prevalence and severity of CAD, independently of age.
- AVC progression was observed, with new AVC (de novo) linked to higher LDL-cholesterol and faster CAC progression.
Conclusions:
- AVC is prevalent in the aging population and associated with atherosclerotic risk factors.
- AVC serves as a marker for subclinical coronary artery disease.
- AVC is a progressive condition, developing de novo with atherosclerosis and progressing independently of risk factors once established.
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