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[Lipoprotein(a). Its importance as an additional atherosclerosis marker]
1Departamento de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Lisboa.
Acta Medica Portuguesa
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a unique lipoprotein with complex structure and properties. Research is advancing understanding of its role in atherosclerosis and thrombosis, necessitating standardized assays and defined pathological thresholds.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Lipidology
- Molecular Biology
Context:
- Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] exhibits significant heterogeneity, sharing properties with Very Low Density Lipoproteins, High Density Lipoproteins, and Low Density Lipoproteins.
- Lp(a) possesses a unique apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] antigen linked to apolipoprotein B100 [apoB100].
- The apo(a) shows sequence homology with plasminogen, suggesting a link between Lp(a) and thrombosis.
Purpose:
- To elucidate the complex structure and metabolic pathways of Lp(a).
- To explore the physiopathological role of Lp(a) in atherogenesis and thrombosis.
- To highlight the need for standardized immunological assays and defined pathological thresholds for Lp(a).
Summary:
- Lp(a) is a distinct lipoprotein secreted by the liver, not derived from other lipoproteins.
- Its unique apo(a) component, homologous to plasminogen, implicates Lp(a) in both atherosclerosis and thrombosis.
- Acquiring new structural knowledge aids in understanding Lp(a)'s atherogenic mechanisms.
Impact:
- Increased interest in Lp(a) due to its potential role in linking atherosclerosis and thrombosis.
- Advancements in understanding Lp(a) structure are crucial for deciphering its atherogenicity.
- Standardization of Lp(a) assays and definition of pathological thresholds are essential for clinical application.