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HDL-cholesterol modulation and its impact on the management of cardiovascular risk

Gordon Ferns1, Vuyolethu Keti

  • 1Postgraduate Medical School, University of Surrey, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7WG, UK. g.ferns@surrey.ac.uk

Annals of Clinical Biochemistry
|March 8, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Low high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) is a cardiovascular risk factor, common in metabolic syndrome. Research is exploring HDL metabolism and new therapies to raise HDL-C, but clinical trials are needed to set target values.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Metabolic Disorders
  • Lipid Metabolism

Background:

  • High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) is a recognized independent cardiovascular risk factor.
  • Low HDL-C is prevalent, particularly in individuals with metabolic syndrome, a condition with increasing global incidence.
  • The role of HDL-C in coronary risk is established and integrated into major cardiovascular risk assessment tools.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the causes and implications of low HDL-C.
  • To explore the mechanisms underlying HDL-C's protective effects.
  • To identify potential therapeutic targets for increasing HDL-C levels.

Main Methods:

  • Epidemiological evidence review.
  • Analysis of HDL metabolism and function.
  • Identification of novel therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

  • Low HDL-C is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, especially in metabolic syndrome.
  • Understanding HDL metabolism clarifies its protective role and explains varied risk associations.
  • Emerging therapeutic targets show potential for increasing HDL-C.

Conclusions:

  • While low HDL-C is a significant risk factor, not all causes correlate with increased coronary disease risk.
  • Further clinical endpoint studies are essential to establish definitive HDL-C target values for high-risk individuals.

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