HDL in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Mechanistic Insight and Therapeutic Potential

This review examines the role of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in the context of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). It focuses on the correlation between HDL and AAA risk, while also exploring the mechanisms by which HDL may protect against AAA progression.

Large epidemiological and genetic studies have consistently shown that lower HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels are associated with an increased risk of AAA. HDL exerts a protective effect against AAA formation through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and endothelial protective functions. Recent therapeutic strategies aimed at augmenting HDL functionality, including synthetic HDL (sHDL) and apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I) mimetics, have demonstrated promising results in animal models. Current evidence supports a protective role for HDL in AAA pathogenesis. Strategies aimed to improve or mimic HDL function represent promising avenues for future AAA treatment, emphasizing the need for continued translational research and clinical development.