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Published on: October 12, 2017
Genetics and Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Lipoprotein(a)-Associated Cardiovascular Risk
Annabelle Santos Volgman1, Marlys L Koschinsky2, Anurag Mehta3
1Division of Cardiology Rush University Medical Center Chicago IL USA.
Elevated lipoprotein(a) is a genetically influenced cardiovascular disease risk factor. Understanding its genetic and nongenetic determinants is key for identifying individuals who may benefit from emerging lipoprotein(a)-lowering therapies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Genetics
- Lipid Metabolism
- Pharmacogenomics
Background:
- Elevated lipoprotein(a) is a significant, genetically determined risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- Lipoprotein(a) levels are influenced by multiple genetic factors, including the LPA gene, and demographic variables like sex and ethnicity.
- Nongenetic factors such as inflammation, menopause, diet, and renal function also impact lipoprotein(a) concentration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the genetic determinants of lipoprotein(a) levels.
- To explore the pathophysiological mechanisms linking lipoprotein(a) to cardiovascular disease.
- To provide practical guidance for lipoprotein(a) testing and its role in risk management.
Main Methods:
- Review of genetic loci influencing lipoprotein(a) levels, including LPA, APOE, and APOH.
- Analysis of demographic and nongenetic factors affecting lipoprotein(a) concentration.
- Discussion of the role of inflammation and interleukin-6 in lipoprotein(a) regulation.
Main Results:
- Lipoprotein(a) concentration is significantly influenced by genetic variations within the LPA gene and other loci.
- Sex, ethnicity, menopause, diet, renal function, and inflammation contribute to variations in lipoprotein(a) levels.
- Investigational RNA-targeted therapies show promise for lowering lipoprotein(a), highlighting the need for widespread testing.
Conclusions:
- Genetic and nongenetic factors intricately regulate lipoprotein(a) levels, a key cardiovascular risk driver.
- Lipoprotein(a) testing is crucial for identifying at-risk individuals and guiding management, especially with new therapies emerging.
- Routine, nonfasting blood draws make lipoprotein(a) testing a convenient and valuable screening tool.
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