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Lipoprotein(a): intrigues and insights
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas 75235, USA. helen.hobbs@email.swmed.edu
Current Opinion in Lipidology
|August 4, 1999
Summary
Lipoprotein(a) is an atherogenic lipoprotein linked to cardiovascular disease. Its unique properties and apolipoprotein(a) component present challenges, leaving key questions about its function unanswered.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Metabolism
Background:
- Lipoprotein(a) is an atherogenic, cholesterol ester-rich lipoprotein.
- Its physiological function remains largely unknown.
- Unusual species distribution and polymorphic apolipoprotein(a) pose research challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biochemistry, genetics, metabolism, and atherogenicity of Lipoprotein(a).
- To highlight fundamental unanswered questions regarding this enigmatic lipoprotein.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on Lipoprotein(a).
Main Results:
- Lipoprotein(a) exhibits unusual species distribution.
- Apolipoprotein(a) is highly polymorphic.
- Key aspects of Lipoprotein(a) biochemistry, genetics, metabolism, and atherogenicity require further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Fundamental questions about Lipoprotein(a) persist despite extensive research.
- Further investigation is needed to elucidate the physiological role and atherogenic mechanisms of Lipoprotein(a).