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Cell-free Biochemical Fluorometric Enzymatic Assay for High-throughput Measurement of Lipid Peroxidation in High Density Lipoprotein
Published on: October 12, 2017
Sex hormones and lipoprotein(a) concentration
Giovanni Gaeta1, Simona Lanero, Silvia Barra
1Antonio Cardarelli Hospital, Cardiology Unit, 38, Via Bernardo Cavallino, 80128 Naples, Italy. giovanni.gaeta@tin.it
Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
|January 6, 2011
Summary
Sex hormones, including androgens and estrogens, can lower lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) levels, a risk factor for heart disease. However, their use for treating high Lp(a) is not recommended due to complex effects and potential adverse events.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Lipid Metabolism
Background:
- Elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is an emerging risk factor for coronary artery disease.
- Current lipid-lowering agents, excluding niacin, have minimal impact on Lp(a).
- Sex hormones demonstrate a significant ability to reduce Lp(a) levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology, structure, and metabolism of Lp(a).
- To analyze clinical studies on the effects of various hormonal agents on Lp(a) levels.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of hormonal therapies for managing elevated Lp(a).
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of Lp(a) pathophysiology and metabolism.
- Analysis of clinical trials investigating androgens, estrogens, SERMs, AIs, and tibolone.
- Evaluation of hormonal therapy effects based on drug, dose, and administration route.
Main Results:
- Androgen esters, oral estrogens, and tibolone consistently decrease Lp(a).
- Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) show conflicting results.
- Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) do not appear to reduce Lp(a) concentration.
Conclusions:
- Hormonal therapy's effect on lipids is complex and administration-dependent.
- Androgens and estrogens may cause severe adverse effects in certain contexts.
- These hormonal agents are not currently recommended for high Lp(a) or cardiovascular disease prevention.
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