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Isolation and Analysis of Plasma Lipoproteins by Ultracentrifugation
06:47

Isolation and Analysis of Plasma Lipoproteins by Ultracentrifugation

Published on: January 28, 2021

Lipoprotein(a): biology and clinical importance

Sally P A McCormick1

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. sally.mccormick@stonebow.otago.ac.nz

The Clinical Biochemist. Reviews
|June 3, 2008
PubMed

Insights

High lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels are an independent risk factor for vascular disease. Genetic factors significantly influence these levels, which are difficult to modify but crucial for heart disease risk assessment.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Genetics
  • Lipidology

Background:

  • Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a recognized independent risk factor for vascular disease.
  • Elevated plasma Lp(a) levels (>300 mg/L) increase heart disease risk, especially with co-existing lipid and thrombogenic factors.
  • Lp(a) exhibits high affinity for the arterial wall and possesses athero-thrombogenic properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]'s role in vascular disease.
  • To highlight the genetic control and variability of Lp(a) levels.
  • To discuss the challenges and known factors influencing Lp(a) levels.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of human studies on Lp(a) levels and vascular disease.
  • Analysis of genetic factors influencing Lp(a) regulation.
  • Examination of Lp(a)'s biological properties and clinical significance.

Main Results:

  • Lp(a) levels are highly variable and primarily determined by the apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] gene.
  • Factors influencing Lp(a) levels have been identified, though manipulation remains challenging.
  • Lp(a) plays a significant role in atherogenesis and thrombosis.

Conclusions:

  • Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a critical, genetically influenced risk factor for vascular and heart disease.
  • Despite challenges in manipulation, understanding Lp(a) biology is vital for clinical risk assessment.
  • Further research continues to elucidate the precise function and clinical implications of Lp(a).

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