CXCR2 Leucocyte Expression Level as a Predictive Factor of Coronary Artery Calcification Progression in Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

CXCR2 Leucocyte Expression Level as a Predictive Factor of Coronary Artery Calcification Progression in Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with the development of coronary arteries calcifications (CAC) and increased cardiovascular mortality. Previously, the investigators demonstrated that interleukin 8 (IL-8) plays a role in the calcification process, and that blockade of its receptor, CXCR2 reduces cardiovascular calcifications. The investigators hypothesize that leucocytes expressing CXCR2 may contribute to the development and progression of CAC in CKD patients. Identifying CKD patients with a high calcification phenotype and therapeutic targets to prevent cardiovascular calcifications is essential. Advanced CKD patients (stages IV and V) will undergo analysis of CXCR2 expression from neutrophils and monocytes at inclusion by flow cytometry, followed by non-contrast thoracic CT scans at inclusion, 1 year and 3 years to assess calcification scores and progression. Patients will have a pre-inclusion visit for research information and consent. If consent is given, three protocol visits (inclusion, 1 year, 3 years) including clinical exam, laboratory tests and CT evaluations will be performed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age > 18 years
• CKD defined by eGFR < 30 mL/min/1,73m²
• signed inform consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients on dialysis,
• kidney transplant recipients,
• current or recent (within 30 days) infection,
• inflammatory diseases,
• active cancer treatment,
• use of immunosuppressive agents,
• presence of coronary stents or aortic valve protheses,
• inability to provide informed consent.