Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 28, 2026
10:59
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
Summary
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.
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