Lipoprotein (a)

Abstract

The lipids are transported by lipoproteins in the blood system. Lipoprotein (a) [Lp (a)] is a unique lipoprotein of the human plasma discovered by professor Berg in 1963. Lp (a) consists of apolipoprotein (a) and LDL particles (apolipoprotein B100). The level and size of Lp (a) are highly variable and largely determined heredity. Clinical studies on animal models have shown that elevated Lp (a) levels are linked with a higher risk of atherosclerosis, even though not all of the conclusions based on the studies that have been carried are convincing. Concentration over 35 mg/dl is considered to be a risk level. Surprisingly high Lp (a) levels in old age are associated with longevity. This may be explained by the physiological role of Lp (a) in tissue reparation, wound healing and anti-cancer effect.