A simple method of quantitative estimation of the subfractions of human serum small molecular diameter lipoproteins

The method presented allows the separation and fractionation of up to 12 subfractions of human serum small molecular diameter lipoproteins (SMDL) by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The method was checked and confirmed by more than 2000 separations. The frequency of the appearance of the particular subfractions was investigated in 300 persons--children and adults. The method of quantitative estimation of each subfraction was evaluated. The precision of this method was 3% to 11% (mean 6%). A good reproducibility of separations was found within 2 to 4 days after blood collection (with refrigeration). The stability of the separation patterns was satisfactory for up to 9 days in five healthy persons. Examples of differences in the SMDL-subfraction patterns, depending on sex, age and pathology, are given.