Lipoprotein(a): a unique risk factor for cardiovascular disease

Clin Lab Med. 2006 Dec;26(4):751-72. doi: 10.1016/j.cll.2006.07.002.

Abstract

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is present in humans and primates. It has many properties in common with low-density lipoprotein, but contains a unique protein moiety designated apo(a), which is linked to apolipoprotein B-100 by a single disulfide bond. International standards for Lp(a) measurement and optimized Lp(a) assays insensitive to isoform size are not yet widely available. Lp(a) is a risk factor for coronary artery disease, and smaller size apo(a) is associated with coronary artery disease. The physiologic role of Lp(a) is unknown.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Atherosclerosis / blood
  • Atherosclerosis / etiology*
  • Clinical Laboratory Techniques / methods*
  • Coronary Artery Disease / blood
  • Coronary Artery Disease / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Immunoassay
  • Lipoprotein(a) / blood*
  • Lipoprotein(a) / chemistry*
  • Models, Animal
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Lipoprotein(a)