Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jan 28, 2026

Enrichment of Bacterial Lipoproteins and Preparation of N-terminal Lipopeptides for Structural Determination by Mass Spectrometry
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Enrichment of Bacterial Lipoproteins and Preparation of N-terminal Lipopeptides for Structural Determination by Mass Spectrometry

Published on: May 21, 2018

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Lipoprotein(a): structural basis, bidirectional risk, and therapeutic frontiers

Zeyu Xu1, Yi Fang1, Yong Peng1

  • 1The Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 128 Xiangshan North Road, Donghu District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, 330008, China.

Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition
|January 27, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a genetically determined cardiovascular disease risk factor. This review explores Lp(a) structure, genetics, and emerging therapies for managing its levels.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Genetics
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Cardiovascular disease (CVD) management has advanced, yet lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] remains an under-recognized genetic risk factor.
  • Both very high and very low Lp(a) levels are associated with adverse health outcomes.
  • Current Lp(a) diagnostics lack standardization, and existing lipid-lowering therapies have minimal impact on Lp(a) levels, limiting treatment options.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive molecular and clinical review of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)].
  • To examine Lp(a)'s structure, genetic determinants, metabolism, and factors affecting plasma concentration.
  • To discuss novel therapeutic strategies targeting Lp(a).

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review.
  • Analysis of molecular and clinical data.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on Lp(a) biology and therapeutics.

Main Results:

  • Lp(a) has a unique structure and is influenced by genetic factors and metabolic pathways.
  • Plasma concentrations of Lp(a) are affected by various biological and environmental factors.
  • Emerging therapies show promise for specifically targeting Lp(a).

Conclusions:

  • Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] represents a significant, genetically determined risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
  • Addressing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for Lp(a) is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
  • Further research into Lp(a) biology and targeted therapies is warranted.

Keywords:
cardiovascular diseaselipoprotein(a); Lp(a)mortality risktreatment

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