Triglycerides, Triglyceride-Rich Lipoproteins, and Remnant Cholesterol in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Lipid Metabolism
• Atherosclerosis Research

Background:

• Residual cardiovascular risk persists despite low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering therapies.
• Triglycerides (TGs) and remnant cholesterol (RC) are increasingly recognized as independent contributors to atherosclerosis.
• Triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) play a complex role in cardiovascular pathology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the metabolism and atherogenic properties of TGs, TRLs, and RC.
• To critically evaluate the direct role of TGs versus TRL remnants in heart disease.
• To examine current and emerging therapies targeting these lipid parameters for cardiovascular risk management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on TG, TRL, and RC metabolism and atherogenesis.
• Critical analysis of mechanistic data linking these lipids to cardiovascular disease.
• Evaluation of clinical trial data and emerging therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

• TGs and RC contribute to atherosclerosis independently of LDL-C.
• TRLs possess unique atherogenic properties contributing to cardiovascular risk.
• Therapeutic strategies targeting TGs and RC are evolving for residual risk reduction.

Conclusions:

• TG, TRL, and RC management is crucial for addressing residual cardiovascular risk.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the precise atherogenic mechanisms.
• Integrating TG and RC metrics into clinical practice may improve cardiovascular risk stratification and treatment.