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Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2: Risk marker or target of therapy?

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Abstract

Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) has been associated with cardiovascular disease risk in epidemiologic studies, but whether Lp-PLA2 is a risk marker or a risk factor is unknown. Identification of individuals with elevated Lp-PLA2 may improve assessment for cardiovascular disease risk. Statin therapy has been shown to reduce Lp-PLA2, which circulates primarily bound to low-density lipoprotein, and selective inhibitors of Lp-PLA2 are under development. Additional research is needed to determine the role of Lp-PLA2 in atherogenesis and atherothrombotic events and whether Lp-PLA2 may provide an additional target of therapy.

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  1. Baylor College of Medicine, 6565 Fannin, M.S. A-601, Houston, TX, 77030, USA

    Christie M. Ballantyne MD

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  1. Christie M. Ballantyne MD
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Correspondence to Christie M. Ballantyne MD.

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Ballantyne, C.M. Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2: Risk marker or target of therapy?. Curr Cardio Risk Rep 1, 66–71 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12170-007-0011-y

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