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Published on: January 28, 2021

Triacylglycerol-rich lipoproteins and atherosclerosis--where is the link?

P Cullen1

  • 1Institut für Arterioskleroseforschung, Domagkstrasse 3, D-48149 Muenster, Germany. cullen@uni-muenster.de

Biochemical Society Transactions
|September 25, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Raised triacylglycerol-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) may be as atherogenic as LDL cholesterol. This review examines epidemiological data, arterial wall pathology, and the benefits of lowering TRLs to prevent atherosclerosis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Lipid Metabolism
  • Atherosclerosis Research

Background:

  • The link between high LDL cholesterol and atherosclerosis is well-established.
  • The role of triacylglycerol-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) in atherosclerosis is less clear but increasingly recognized.
  • Emerging evidence suggests TRLs can be as atherogenic as LDL.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiological evidence linking elevated TRL levels to atherosclerosis.
  • To explore the pathophysiological mechanisms by which TRLs contribute to atherogenesis.
  • To evaluate the rationale for targeting TRLs for atherosclerosis prevention.

Main Methods:

  • Review of epidemiological studies, focusing on the PROCAM study.
  • Analysis of pathophysiological data concerning TRLs and the arterial wall.
  • Synthesis of evidence supporting therapeutic TRL reduction.

Main Results:

  • Epidemiological data, including PROCAM study results, indicate a significant association between raised TRL levels and atherosclerosis.
  • TRLs may contribute to atherogenesis through various mechanisms within the arterial wall.
  • Substantial evidence supports the atherogenic potential of TRLs, comparable to LDL.

Conclusions:

  • Raised TRL levels are strongly linked to atherosclerosis.
  • TRLs play a significant role in the development of atherosclerosis.
  • Targeting TRL reduction is a potential strategy for preventing atherosclerosis.

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