Laboratory assessment of HDL heterogeneity and function

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Lipid Metabolism
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) levels correlate inversely with cardiovascular risk.
• The failure of torcetrapib highlights the importance of HDL function over HDL-C concentration.
• HDL is heterogeneous, with subfractions potentially offering better cardiovascular risk prediction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on assays for HDL heterogeneity and function.
• To explore the relationship between HDL characteristics and cardiovascular disease.
• To emphasize the need for validated assays for clinical application.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on HDL assays.
• Analysis of HDL subfractions based on density, size, charge, and protein composition.
• Examination of HDL functions, including cholesterol efflux, anti-inflammatory effects, and nitric oxide promotion.

Main Results:

• HDL exhibits significant heterogeneity, with distinct subfractions.
• HDL possesses multiple functions contributing to cardiovascular protection.
• Current assays for HDL heterogeneity and function require further validation.

Conclusions:

• Assays for HDL subfractions and functions are crucial for cardiovascular clinicians and researchers.
• Validation of these assays is essential for predicting cardiovascular risk.
• Assessing HDL function is vital for evaluating therapeutic interventions.