Fraction estimation of small, dense LDL using autocorrelation function of dynamic light scattering

Small, dense low-density lipoprotein (sdLDL) in total LDL is strongly related with the cardiovascular risk level. An optical technique using dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurement is useful for point-of-care testing of sdLDL. However, the sdLDL fraction estimated from the particle size distribution in DLS data is sensitive to noise and artifacts. Therefore, we derived analytical solutions in a closed form to estimate the fraction of scatterers using the autocorrelation function of scattered light from a polydisperse solution. The effect of the undesired large particles can be eliminated by the pre-processing of the autocorrelation function. The proposed technique was verified using latex standard particles and LDL solutions. Results suggest the feasibility of this technique to estimate the sdLDL fraction using optical scattering measurements.