New Study Links Lp(a) Levels to Recurrent Coronary Heart Disease: Potential for Targeted Therapies

New Research Identifies Hidden Problem in Coronary Heart Disease

June 23, 2023 – A new study has identified a harmful genetic cholesterol protein as a hidden problem in coronary heart disease (CHD). The research found that the current drugs targeting LDL-low-density lipoproteins have a very small effect, leading to the need for new therapies.

The study, which observed 607 adults aged 60 and over for 16 years, discovered that Lp(a) levels were higher and more prevalent in those who had recurring coronary artery disease. These findings highlight the link between Lp(a) and the risk of recurrent coronary heart disease, emphasizing the need for targeted therapies specifically for Lp(a).

Lead researcher Leon Simmons, associate professor at the University of New South Wales College of Clinical Medicine in Sydney, explained that the results indicate a growing evidence of a relationship between increased Lp(a) and the risk of recurrent coronary heart disease. He added that new therapies under development aimed at reducing elevated Lp(a) could help prevent the recurrence of coronary heart disease.

Lipoproteins, including high-density lipoprotein HDL, are responsible for transporting cholesterol through the bloodstream. HDL is considered beneficial as it takes cholesterol to the liver for removal from the body. On the other hand, LDL cholesterol is responsible for the buildup of cholesterol on artery walls. Lp(a) protein, synthesized from LDL and a large hydrophilic glycoprotein called lipoprotein, is associated with premature coronary artery disease and stroke.

While Lp(a) levels are largely inheritable, with an estimated one in five people born with the genetic coding for it, they cannot be ascertained during a common blood test for cholesterol. The Australian researchers explain that high levels of Lp(a) are unlikely to present with noticeable physical symptoms, making it particularly insidious. For some, the first clue to elevated levels could be an increased risk of a heart attack.

The study revealed that adults with previous coronary artery disease and elevated Lp(a) levels greater than 355 mg/L had a 53% increased risk of recurrent heart attacks compared to those with lower Lp(a) levels. While Lp(a) levels may not yet be a target for medical intervention, the risk can be mitigated with diet and exercise, which is recommended for anyone with high cholesterol readings.

Current drugs, such as statins, often prescribed to lower “bad” cholesterol in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease, have not shown significant or proven effects on the rise in Lp(a) levels. However, there is hope for the future as new therapies designed to lower Lp(a) levels are currently in advanced stages of clinical development.

Understanding the role Lp(a) plays in cardiovascular disease is crucial for developing better medical interventions that can effectively target this hidden problem in coronary heart disease.

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Why are new therapies specifically targeting Lp(a) levels needed for patients with coronary heart disease

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Lp(a) is a type of cholesterol protein that is genetically determined and is not affected by the commonly used cholesterol-lowering drugs. This is why the study suggests that new therapies specifically targeting Lp(a) are needed.

Coronary heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, and it is important to understand the underlying factors that contribute to its development and recurrence. LDL cholesterol, commonly known as “bad” cholesterol, has been widely targeted in treatments for CHD. However, this study reveals that the focus on LDL cholesterol alone may not be sufficient, as its impact on Lp(a) levels is limited.

The study followed a group of older adults for 16 years, during which time they monitored their Lp(a) levels and occurrences of recurring coronary artery disease. The researchers found that higher levels of Lp(a) were associated with a higher risk of recurrence.

These findings highlight the need for new therapies that specifically target Lp(a) levels in patients with coronary heart disease. By reducing elevated Lp(a), it may be possible to prevent the recurrence of the disease.

Lead researcher, Leon Simmons, emphasized the importance of these findings and the potential impact of targeted therapies for Lp(a). He stated that the evidence is growing regarding the relationship between increased Lp(a) and the risk of recurrent coronary heart disease. Therefore, developing therapies aimed at reducing Lp(a) could be a crucial step in preventing its recurrence.

Overall, this study sheds light on a hidden problem in coronary heart disease – the role of Lp(a). It highlights the need for new therapies that specifically target Lp(a) levels in order to effectively reduce the risk of recurrence in patients with CHD. Further research and development in this area could lead to more effective treatments for this common and life-threatening condition.