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Lipoprotein(a) levels in Down syndrome: A conundrum
Herminia Diana Rosas1,2, Florence Lai1, Nathaniel Mercaldo1,2
1Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA.
Introduction:
Lipoprotein a (Lp(a)) is a low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-like particle that has been associated with risk for vascular inflammation, atherogenesis, calcification, and thrombosis in the general population but is also a risk factor for Alzheimer disease (AD).
Objective:
The aim of this study was to conduct a retrospective study of lipoprotein a, Lp(a), levels in adults with Down syndrome (DS) and at risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD).
Methods:
Lp(a) serum concentrations were collected from 96 adults as part of a routine clinical assessment. A comprehensive medical chart review was conducted, including clinical laboratory values that could contribute to cognitive dysfunction (e.g., thyroid function tests, C-reactive protein(CRP), vitamin B12, lipid profiles, and vitamin D levels). Generalized linear regression models were constructed to quantify the relationship between each medical condition or laboratory value and Lp(a) level.
Results:
There was insufficient evidence for an increased risk for earlier age of onset of AD in those with elevated Lp(a) plasma levels (≥50 mg/dL).
Discussion:
Adults with DS may have unique neuro- and cardio- protective factors that deserve future investigation.
Highlights:
Lipoprotein a (Lp(a)) elevations in Down syndrome (DS) are not associated with higher risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Lp(a) elevations are not associated with typical vascular risk factors in DS. Distinct neuro- and cardio- protective factors may play a role in DS that may provide novel insights.
