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LDL particle size distribution. Results from the Framingham Offspring Study
H Campos1, E Blijlevens, J R McNamara
1Lipid Metabolism Laboratory, US Department of Agriculture Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, Boston, Mass. 02111.
Arteriosclerosis and Thrombosis : a Journal of Vascular Biology
|December 1, 1992
Summary
This study reveals that low saturated fat and cholesterol intake correlate with smaller low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles. Small, dense LDL particles may not be a reliable indicator of coronary artery disease risk in population studies.
Area of Science:
- Lipid Metabolism
- Cardiovascular Health
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particle size is a key determinant of cardiovascular risk.
- Understanding the factors influencing LDL size, including diet and demographics, is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between LDL particle size, plasma lipoproteins, and dietary intake in a large population cohort.
- To determine the association between LDL size distribution and cardiovascular risk factors in men and women.
Main Methods:
- Gradient gel electrophoresis was used to analyze LDL particle size in 1,168 women and 1,172 men from the Framingham Offspring Study.
- Dietary intake was assessed in a subset of the population to evaluate its effect on LDL size.
- Laser scanning densitometry quantified the relative area of different LDL subpopulations.
Main Results:
- Seven LDL size peaks were identified, with distinct density ranges. LDL size distribution varied by sex, with women tending towards larger particles and men towards a more symmetric distribution.
- Small, dense LDL particles (4-7) were more prevalent in men (33%) than in premenopausal (5%) and postmenopausal women (14%).
- Small, dense LDL particles were significantly associated with increased triglycerides, apolipoprotein B, and decreased HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein A-I. Lower saturated fat and cholesterol intake correlated with smaller LDL particles.
Conclusions:
- LDL particle size is influenced by sex and diet, with lower saturated fat and cholesterol intake linked to smaller LDL particles.
- The prevalence of small, dense LDL particles differs between sexes and menopausal status.
- While small, dense LDL particles are associated with adverse lipid profiles, their utility as an isolated marker for coronary artery disease risk in population studies requires further consideration.