Related Experiment Videos

Rethinking Lipid Burden and the Role of Non-LDL Biomarkers in Stroke Risk Stratification

Sean Michael Kelly1,2,3, Julia Schneider4,5,6, Michela Rosso4,5,6

  • 1New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, United States. sean.kelly2@nyulangone.org.

Current Atherosclerosis Reports
|July 25, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Non-low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) biomarkers improve atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk assessment. Additional lipid measures like triglyceride-to-high density lipoprotein ratio (TG:HDL), lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)), and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) aid in stroke risk stratification and secondary prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Lipidology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Established link between elevated low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and atherosclerosis.
  • Growing evidence suggests non-LDL-C biomarkers offer more precise cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk stratification.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Review literature on non-LDL biomarkers in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACSVD).
  • Examine their role in atherogenesis and ischemic stroke risk.
  • Discuss future applications in secondary stroke prevention.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies on non-LDL biomarkers.
  • Analysis of lipid panel components and additional lipoprotein assays.
  • Evaluation of their association with atherosclerosis and stroke risk.

Main Results:

  • Non-traditional markers, beyond LDL-C, refine CVD risk assessment.
  • Measures like triglyceride-to-high density lipoprotein ratio (TG:HDL), lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)), and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) are important.
  • These markers help estimate metabolic health and atherogenic particle burden.

Conclusions:

  • Non-LDL biomarkers are crucial for comprehensive stroke risk assessment.
  • Consideration of TG:HDL, Lp(a), and ApoB is recommended for monitoring and secondary stroke prevention.
  • Further research is needed to fully define their role in ischemic stroke risk.
Abstract

Keywords:
AtherosclerosisLDLLipoproteinStrokeTriglycerides

Related Concept Videos

Atherosclerosis III: Management01:26

Atherosclerosis III: Management

Management of atherosclerosis involves an integrated strategy encompassing pharmacological treatment, surgical interventions, lifestyle changes, and nutrition therapy to address the multifactorial nature of the disease.Pharmacological TherapyA cornerstone of atherosclerosis management is the use of pharmacological agents. Statins, such as atorvastatin, are pivotal in inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that catalyzes an initial step in cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This reduction in...
Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System III: Serum Lipid Profile01:25

Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System III: Serum Lipid Profile

Understanding serum lipids is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health and preventing heart disease and stroke.
Serum lipids are fats and fatty substances in the blood and are crucial for various bodily functions, including energy storage, cellular structure, and hormone production. Serum lipids consist of cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids.
Cholesterol is a soft, fat-like substance found in all body cells. It is crucial for producing hormones, vitamin D, and substances that aid...
Lipid-Lowering Drugs: Statins and Miscellaneous Agents01:20

Lipid-Lowering Drugs: Statins and Miscellaneous Agents

Hyperlipidemia, a medical condition often referred to as high cholesterol, is characterized by abnormally elevated levels of lipids in the bloodstream. When present in excess, these lipids, specifically cholesterol and triglycerides, can lead to serious health complications, often involving cardiovascular diseases. Illnesses like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and pancreatitis have all been linked to untreated hyperlipidemia. This means controlling and regulating cholesterol and triglyceride...
Coronary Artery Disease IV: Preventive Measures01:26

Coronary Artery Disease IV: Preventive Measures

Effective preventive measures for coronary artery disease (CAD) focus on controlling modifiable risk factors, including cholesterol abnormalities and lifestyle changes.Cholesterol ManagementFirst, the Mediterranean diet and the American Heart Association advocate for maintaining low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels below 100 mg/dL, with a more stringent recommendation of below 70 mg/dL for individuals at high risk. LDL cholesterol, often termed "bad cholesterol," can lead to the...
Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction01:30

Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): An Overview with Scientific InsightsCoronary Artery Disease (CAD), often referred to as C-A-D, is a prevalent blood vessel disorder classified under the broader category of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a pathological process characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques are composed of cholesterol, fatty substances, inflammatory cells, calcium, and fibrin, reducing blood flow to...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT01:25

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT

Calcium-Scoring CT ScanA calcium-scoring CT scan, also known as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. This test assesses the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to cardiovascular events such as angina, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest.A calcium-scoring CT scan is generally recommended for individuals at intermediate risk of CAD without symptoms. It includes:Men aged 40-75 and women aged 50-75: Especially those with a...