METHODS OF INHIBITING ECTOPIC CALCIFICATION

摘要

The invention provides a method of inhibiting ectopic calcification in an individual. The method consists of administratering to the invidual a therapeutically effective amount of osteopontin or a functional fragment thereof. The invention also provides a method of treating or inhibiting ectopic calcification by administering to an individual acid-producing cells targeted to the site of ectopic calcification. The invention further provides a method of treating or inhibiting ectopic calcification in an individual consisting of promoting recruitement of acid producing cells to a site of ectopic calcification by administering osteopontin. The invention also provides a method of treating or inhibiting ectopic calcification in an individual consisting of increasing expression of carbonic anhydrase II at a site of ectopic calcification by administering osteopontin.