← brief for 2026-09-13 · Slowing decline

PKM2 AP: a micropeptide inhibits vascular calcification via molecular glue-mediated ubiquitination of PKM2

Key takeaways

Researchers found a very small protein that blocks calcium from building up in blood vessel walls. It works by tagging an enzyme called PKM2 for disposal by the cell. Stiff, calcium-loaded arteries are common in kidney disease and raise the risk of heart problems. This was done in cells and animals, not in people, so it is far from being a treatment.

Who did this work

M.M. Wang (Zhejiang International Studies University) · Junjie Cheng (Zhejiang International Studies University) · Lin Ma (Zhejiang International Studies University) · Jingjuan Yang (Zhejiang International Studies University) · Cui Gao (Zhejiang International Studies University) · Xin Fang (Zhejiang International Studies University) · Ling Ma (Zhejiang International Studies University) · Xianghui Fu (Sichuan University) · Aifu Lin (Zhejiang University) · Songmin Ying (Zhejiang International Studies University) · Weiqiang Lin (Zhejiang International Studies University) · Yi Yang (Zhejiang International Studies University)

Source

Paper · OpenAlex, CKD works · 2026-09-12
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-77693-9