The effect of lipoproteins on the development and progression of renal disease

The field of research examining how lipoproteins may contribute to the development and/or progression of renal disease has rapidly expanded over the last 25 years. In animal models, lipoproteins and lipids have been associated with both the initiation and progression of renal disease. Numerous potential mechanisms of lipoprotein-induced renal injury have been identified by utilizing animal models and tissue-culture experiments. However, with the exception of rare genetic mutations, the association between lipoproteins and human renal disease is less clear. In humans, the evidence that lipid-lowering therapy delays renal progression is limited. The purpose of this paper is to review the current literature on lipoprotein abnormalities and the development or progression of renal disease.