Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026
06:47
Isolation and Analysis of Plasma Lipoproteins by Ultracentrifugation
Published on: January 28, 2021
Lipoprotein a: where are we now?
Konstantinos Tziomalos1, Vasilios G Athyros, Anthony S Wierzbicki
1Department of Clinical Biochemistry (Vascular Prevention Clinic), Royal Free Hospital Campus, University College Medical School, University College London, London, UK.
Current Opinion in Cardiology
|May 7, 2009
Summary
Elevated lipoprotein a (Lp(a)) levels are linked to vascular diseases like heart attack and stroke. Managing other risk factors, such as LDL cholesterol, may help reduce Lp(a) related risks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Lipidology
- Atherosclerosis Research
Background:
- Lipoprotein a (Lp(a)) is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic vascular disease.
- Elevated Lp(a) levels are associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on the association between lipoprotein a and vascular disease.
- To discuss the role of Lp(a) in atherosclerosis pathogenesis and its clinical implications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating lipoprotein a and vascular disease.
- Analysis of evidence linking elevated Lp(a) to cardiovascular events and atherosclerosis.
Main Results:
- Strong evidence supports the association between high plasma Lp(a) levels and coronary heart disease, stroke, and atherosclerosis.
- Potential mechanisms include Lp(a)'s pro-inflammatory effects and interference with fibrinolysis.
Conclusions:
- Lipoprotein a may aid in vascular risk stratification for primary and secondary prevention.
- Challenges remain in Lp(a) measurement standardization and developing effective pharmacological interventions.
- Reducing vascular risk attributed to Lp(a) may involve aggressive management of other risk factors like LDL cholesterol.
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