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Updated: Aug 24, 2026

Isolation and Analysis of Plasma Lipoproteins by Ultracentrifugation
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Isolation and Analysis of Plasma Lipoproteins by Ultracentrifugation

Published on: January 28, 2021

Lipoprotein(a): new insights into mechanisms of atherogenesis and thrombosis

Arjun Deb1, Noel M Caplice

  • 1Division of Cardiovascular Diseases and Molecular Medicine Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.

Clinical Cardiology
|June 11, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) is a controversial molecule linked to vascular disease. New research suggests complex, tissue-specific effects in blood and tissue contribute to atherosclerosis and thrombosis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Biochemistry
  • Pathophysiology

Background:

  • Lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) is a molecule with an unclear physiological role.
  • Emerging evidence suggests Lp[a] contributes to atherosclerosis and its complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the structure and biochemical function of Lp(a).
  • To summarize pathophysiologic mechanisms of Lp[a]-induced vascular disease.
  • To highlight the role of cell and tissue-specific effects in atherogenesis and thrombosis.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current research on Lp(a).

Main Results:

  • Lp(a) has complex effects that differ between vascular tissue and blood.
  • A combination of tissue-specific effects is likely key to Lp[a]'s pathogenicity.
  • Mechanisms include contributions to atherogenesis and thrombosis.

Conclusions:

  • Lp(a) plays a significant, albeit complex, role in vascular disease.
  • Understanding tissue-specific effects is crucial for elucidating Lp[a]'s pathogenicity.

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