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Lipoprotein(a) profiles and evolution in newborns
J P Van Biervliet1, C Labeur, G Michiels
1Department of Pediatrics, A.Z.St-Jan, Brugge, Belgium.
Atherosclerosis
|February 1, 1991
Summary
Plasma lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels are low at birth but increase significantly in the first week and continue to rise for six months in newborns. Diet does not appear to influence these early Lp(a) changes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Lipid Metabolism
Background:
- Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- Understanding early life Lp(a) development is crucial for assessing long-term cardiovascular risk.
- Limited data exists on Lp(a) concentrations and characteristics during the first six months of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify plasma Lp(a) concentrations in newborns from birth to six months.
- To investigate the influence of diet on Lp(a) levels.
- To characterize Lp(a) particle size and distribution in relation to age.
Main Methods:
- Quantification of plasma Lp(a) using a sensitive ELISA assay.
- Longitudinal follow-up of Lp(a) levels from birth to 180 days.
- Analysis of lipoprotein profiles via gel chromatography.
- Assessment of dietary influence on Lp(a) concentrations.
Main Results:
- Lp(a) levels are low at birth, rising significantly within the first week and continuously up to 180 days.
- Elevated Lp(a) levels were detected in some newborns, with persistence noted at 16 months and in parents.
- At birth, Lp(a) particles were larger than LDL, becoming more heterogeneous with age.
Conclusions:
- Newborns exhibit a distinct pattern of rapid Lp(a) increase post-birth.
- Early detection of high Lp(a) may identify individuals with familial predisposition.
- Lp(a) particle characteristics evolve during early infancy, independent of nutritional factors.