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Updated: Jul 4, 2025

Isolation and Analysis of Plasma Lipoproteins by Ultracentrifugation
Published on: January 28, 2021
The ins and outs of lipoprotein(a) assay methods
Maryam Heydari1, Majid Rezayi1,2,3, Massimiliano Ruscica4
1Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
Insights
Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a key driver of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). This review details various Lp(a) measurement methods, crucial for better ASCVD risk prediction.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Biochemistry
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a confirmed causal mediator of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).
- Lp(a) contributes to ASCVD through mechanisms involving immune cells, endothelial cells, and platelets.
- Despite established causality, the clinical utility of Lp(a) remains under discussion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of current methods for measuring Lp(a).
- To highlight the importance of diverse Lp(a) detection techniques for clinical application.
Main Methods:
- Dynamic light scattering
- Multi-angle light scattering analysis
- Near-field imaging
- Sedimentation
- Gel filtration
- Electron microscopy
Main Results:
- Various biophysical and imaging techniques can be employed to quantify Lp(a).
- The diversity of methods reflects ongoing efforts to refine Lp(a) assessment.
Conclusions:
- Accurate and accessible measurement of Lp(a) is essential for improving ASCVD risk stratification.
- Further development in Lp(a) detection methodologies will aid clinical decision-making in cardiovascular disease prevention.
Abstract:
Pathophysiological, epidemiological and genetic studies convincingly showed lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) to be a causal mediator of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). This happens through a myriad of mechanisms including activation of innate immune cells, endothelial cells as well as platelets. Although these certainties whether or not Lp(a) is ready for prime-time clinical use remain debated. Thus, remit of the present review is to provide an overview of different methods that have been employed for the measurement of Lp(a). The methods include dynamic light scattering, multi-angle light scattering analysis, near-field imaging, sedimentation, gel filtration, and electron microscopy. The development of multiple Lp(a) detection methods is vital for improved prediction of ASCVD risk.
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