Enigmatic lipoprotein (a) and cardiovascular disease

Abstract

Lipoprotein (a), (LPA) consists of a low density lipoprotein (LDL)-like particle with a lipid core encircled by a large protein, the apo-B-100. A very large glycoprotein, the apoprotein (a) (apoA) is firmly linked to apo-B-100 by two covalent disulfide bonds. The metabolic role of LPA until very recently has been shrouded in mystery. Individuals who have no LPA or a very low level are not known to be affected with any specific disorder. Naturally, this does not mean that LPA above normal is likewise without clinical impact. Elevated LPA is a well known risk factor for atherosclerosis. Amount of LPA in the organism is genetically determined and it is also because of this that medical intervention has not been very successful in modifying this prominent risk metabolite (Fig. 3, Tab. 1, Ref. 37).