Dr. Paul Price

Biography

Paul Price is a Distinguished Professor Emeritus in the Department of Research at the University of California, San Diego. His research focuses on the mechanisms by which proteins regulate normal calcification of bone and inhibit abnormal calcification of soft tissues. Notably, his studies investigate vitamin K-dependent proteins such as the 50-residue bone Gla protein (BGP) and the 83-residue matrix Gla protein (MGP). His pioneering work has shown that BGP and MGP can inhibit calcification in vivo. He explores the implications of impaired BGP expression on calcification in bone adjacent to cartilaginous structures, as well as the effects of impaired MGP expression on arterial calcification. Currently, he is probing the relationship between aging and impaired MGP synthesis in humans, particularly the connection between vitamin K deficiency and arterial calcification, contributing to the risk of atherosclerosis. His lab employs various methods to detect and modify Gla residues, and he is interested in the role of vitamin D on the expression of these proteins, especially in the context of osteoporosis treatment. His research contributes valuable insights into cardiovascular and bone health.

Research Interests