Elevated Lipoprotein(A) Levels: A Crucial Determinant of Cardiovascular Disease Risk and Target for Emerging Therapies
Author Type(s)
Resident/Fellow
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-1-2024
DOI
10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2024.102586
Journal Title
Current Problems in Cardiology
Department
Medicine
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a significant global health challenge despite advancements in prevention and treatment. Elevated Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels have emerged as a crucial risk factor for CVD and aortic stenosis, affecting approximately 20 of the global population. Research over the last decade has established Lp(a) as an independent genetic contributor to CVD and aortic stenosis, beginning with Kare Berg's discovery in 1963. This has led to extensive exploration of its molecular structure and pathogenic roles. Despite the unknown physiological function of Lp(a), studies have shed light on its metabolism, genetics, and involvement in atherosclerosis, inflammation, and thrombosis. Epidemiological evidence highlights the link between high Lp(a) levels and increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Newly emerging therapies, including pelacarsen, zerlasiran, olpasiran, muvalaplin, and lepodisiran, show promise in significantly lowering Lp(a) levels, potentially transforming the management of cardiovascular disease. However, further research is essential to assess these novel therapies' long-term efficacy and safety, heralding a new era in cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment and providing hope for at-risk patients.
Recommended Citation
Afzal, Z., Cao, H., Chaudhary, M., Chigurupati, H., Neppala, S., Alruwaili, W., Awad, M., Sandesara, D., Siddique, M., Farman, A., Zafrullah, F., Gonuguntla, K., & Sattar, Y. (2024). Elevated Lipoprotein(A) Levels: A Crucial Determinant of Cardiovascular Disease Risk and Target for Emerging Therapies. Current Problems in Cardiology, 49 (8), 102586-102586. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2024.102586