The Difference Between High Density Lipoprotein Subfractions and Subspecies: an Evolving Model in Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe term high density lipoproteins (HDL) refers to an eclectic collection of subparticles that play diverse roles in physiology. Here, we define the term “HDL subspecies” and review recent work on their molecular characterization and relation to disease, focusing on cardiovascular disease and diabetes.Recent FindingsThe HDL family contains over 200 proteins and nearly 200 lipids that partition into different particles in plasma. Simple subfractionation of HDL based on a particular physicochemical property has not risen to the challenge of revealing the roles of specific particles in disease. However, by targeting minor protein or lipid components, a handful of compositionally defined HDL subspecies have been described and characterized.SummaryBy combining targeted particle isolation techniques with the power of large human studies, progress is being made in understanding HDL subspecies functions and implications for disease. However, much work remains before these advancements can be translated into disease mitigation strategies.

Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - March 27, 2021 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research