HDL Function across the Lifespan: From Childhood, to Pregnancy, to Old Age

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Lipid Metabolism
• Translational Medicine

Background:

• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a key target for therapeutic interventions and diagnostics.
• Most HDL research focuses on adults with chronic diseases.
• Limited data exists on HDL's role in childhood, pregnancy, and elderly populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of HDL function across different life stages.
• To highlight how HDL dysfunction impacts health outcomes in vulnerable populations.
• To identify knowledge gaps in HDL research concerning specific life stages.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on HDL function.
• Analysis of data concerning HDL's role in childhood, pregnancy, and aging.
• Synthesis of information on HDL disturbances and associated health risks.

Main Results:

• HDL function is vital for maintaining health across all life stages.
• Disturbances in HDL function are linked to adverse health outcomes.
• Significant knowledge gaps exist regarding HDL's specific roles and implications in non-adult populations.

Conclusions:

• HDL's importance extends beyond chronic adult diseases to encompass critical life stages.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate HDL's function and therapeutic potential in pediatric, pregnant, and geriatric individuals.
• Understanding HDL across the lifespan is essential for comprehensive health management.