Influence of ferritin levels on LDL cholesterol concentration in women

Various researchers have observed a higher risk for atherosclerosis when body iron concentration is elevated. The exact mechanism, however, is not known, but probably occurs catalytically via iron. Whether or not body iron concentration has an effect on plasma lipoproteins is also unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate whether or not ferritin concentration within the normal range correlate with LDL-cholesterol (an atherosclerotic risk factor), HDL-cholesterol, apoB, triglyceride and the mobility of LDL particles. Blood was drawn from healthy female volunteers and the above parameters measured. LDL-cholesterol, apoB and the electrophoretic mobility of LDL particles were elevated with increasing ferritin concentrations. Both modified or oxidized LDL and elevated LDL concentration are regarded as risks for atherosclerosis and ischemic heart disease, suggesting that higher body iron is important in this process.