Lipoprotein abnormalities as a risk factor for progressive nondiabetic renal disease

Renal disease is accompanied by characteristic alterations of lipoprotein metabolism, which appear as a consequence of nephrotic syndrome or renal insufficiency and are primarily reflected in an altered apolipoprotein profile rather than elevated plasma lipid levels. Their full characterization requires identification of discrete lipoprotein particles. While nephrotic syndrome results in increased concentrations of both cholesterol- and triglyceride-rich apoB-containing lipoproteins, renal insufficiency is characterized by an accumulation of intact or partially metabolised triglyceride-rich apoB-containing lipoproteins. The dyslipidemia has been discussed as a contributory factor for the progression of renal insufficiency through development of glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial lesions together with accelerated atherosclerosis. Several experimental studies have shown that hyperlipidemia accelerates renal damage. Lipid-lowering treatment can reduce renal lesions and preserve renal function. The documentation in human nondiabetic progressive renal insufficiency is more limited. We have found that increased concentrations of triglyceride-rich, but not cholesterol-rich, apoB-containing lipoproteins are, associated with a more rapid loss of renal function. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms for the relation between triglyceride-rich apoB-containing lipoproteins and progression of renal insufficiency are not fully understood. Treatment with hypolipemic drugs may attenuate the renal dyslipidemia, but thus far there have been no reports about controlled clinical trials testing the possible effect of such treatment on the progression of renal insufficiency. In summary, there is evidence to suggest that some specific lipoprotein abnormalities are a risk factor for the progression of renal dysfunction, but the final test of such assumptions still rests on the results of urgently needed controlled intervention studies.