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Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the correlation between maternal body composition during the second trimester and the occurrence of dyslipidemia in the third trimester. Methods: A cohort of 1508 pregnant women who underwent antenatal testing at Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, were included in this study. Maternal body composition was assessed using bioimpedance analysis between 14 and 22 weeks of gestation. Results: Among the 1508 participants, a total of 1420 individuals (94.2%) were diagnosed with dyslipidemia. Notably, there were significant differences in body composition between the normal lipid group and the dyslipidemia group. Logistic regression analysis revealed that various factors including BMI, total body water (TBW), intra-cellular water (ICW), extra-cellular water (ECW), percent body fat (PBF), visceral fat area (VFA), fat-free mass (FFM) and arm circumference (AC) during the second trimester were all found to be associated with dyslipidemia in the third trimester. Conclusion: The present study found that maternal body composition was associated with dyslipidemia. The BMI, TBW, ICW, ECW, PBF, VFA, FFM and AC in second trimester were associated with dyslipidemia in third trimester. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platelet hyperreactivity and hyperlipidaemia contribute significantly to atherosclerosis. Thus, it is desirable to review the platelet–hyperlipidaemia interplay and its impact on atherogenesis. Native low‐density lipoprotein (nLDL) and oxidized LDL (oxLDL) are the key proatherosclerotic components of hyperlipidaemia. nLDL binds to the platelet‐specific LDL receptor (LDLR) ApoE‐R2′, whereas oxLDL binds to the platelet‐expressed scavenger receptor CD36, lectin‐type oxidized LDLR 1 and scavenger receptor class A 1. Ligation of nLDL/oxLDL induces mild platelet activation and may prime platelets for other platelet agonists. Platelets, in turn, can modulate lipoprotein metabolisms. Platelets contribute to LDL oxidation by enhancing the production of reactive oxygen species and LDLR degradation via proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 release. Platelet‐released platelet factor 4 and transforming growth factor β modulate LDL uptake and foam cell formation. Thus, platelet dysfunction and hyperlipidaemia work in concert to aggravate atherogenesis. Hypolipidemic drugs modulate platelet function, whereas antiplatelet drugs influence lipid metabolism. The research prospects of the platelet–hyperlipidaemia interplay in atherosclerosis are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SCARF1 (scavenger receptor class F member 1, SREC-1 or SR-F1) is a type I transmembrane protein that recognizes multiple endogenous and exogenous ligands such as modified low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) and is important for maintaining homeostasis and immunity. But the structural information and the mechanisms of ligand recognition of SCARF1 are largely unavailable. Here, we solve the crystal structures of the N-terminal fragments of human SCARF1, which show that SCARF1 forms homodimers and its epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domains adopt a long-curved conformation. Then, we examine the interactions of SCARF1 with lipoproteins and are able to identify a region on SCARF1 for recognizing modified LDLs. The mutagenesis data show that the positively charged residues in the region are crucial for the interaction of SCARF1 with modified LDLs, which is confirmed by making chimeric molecules of SCARF1 and SCARF2. In addition, teichoic acids, a cell wall polymer expressed on the surface of gram-positive bacteria, are able to inhibit the interactions of modified LDLs with SCARF1, suggesting the ligand binding sites of SCARF1 might be shared for some of its scavenging targets. Overall, these results provide mechanistic insights into SCARF1 and its interactions with the ligands, which are important for understanding its physiological roles in homeostasis and the related diseases.

Aim. The aim of this cross-sectional retrospective study was to study the effect of SARS-CoV-2 S1/S2 infection on population lipid parameters, which are leading risk factors for the development and progression of atherosclerosis, which can be significantly distorted in systemic inflammation and, in particular, during respiratory viral infections.Material and methods. We analyzed anonymized results of one-time, one-year studies of complete lipid profiles and related laboratory parameters performed in the Helix Laboratory Service from February 1, 2015 to December 30, 2020 in 238541 males and 384437 females aged from 22 to 83 years in 334 populated areas of the European Russia using Roche Cobas C502, C702 (Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Mannheim, Germany), LIAISON XL (DiaSorin S.p.A, Italy) analyzers.Statistical analysis included methods of descriptive statistics, distribution analysis, sample comparisons, and search for dependencies.Results. A dramatic change in the magnitude and nature of seasonal population fluctuations in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) during the COVID-19 spread has been identified.COVID-19 differentially affects the relationship between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and atherogenic and antiatherogenic lipoproteins. These relationships have sex differences, are nonlinear, and in relation to HDL-C are associated with the level of specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1/S2 antibodies.Up to a hsCRP level of 2,5 mg/l, there is a significant increase in population levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol with a correlation coefficient of 0,14 for women (p2,5 mg/l, the trend reverses. At the same time, HDL-C levels sharply decrease with a negative correlation of -0,23 (p

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory vascular disease caused by various risk factors, in particular smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and dyslipidemia. In addition, such signaling pathways as NLRP3 inflammasome, toll-like receptors, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9, Notch and Wnt, which are associated with the inflammatory response in the human body, are involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Therapeutic targeting of inflammatory pathways, especially the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and the cascade of reactions regulated by it leading to the production of inflammatory interleukin-1β, may represent a new avenue for the treatment of atherosclerotic diseases. This article summarizes knowledge of the cellular participants and key inflammatory signaling pathways in atherosclerosis, discusses preclinical studies targeting these key pathways in atherosclerosis, clinical trials that will target some of these processes, and the effects of suppressing inflammation and atherosclerosis.

Hokkaido University (Tsumita T, 2022) researchers found that endothelial cells accumulate low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in tumor blood vessels. At the same time, the endothelium carries out neutrophil chemotaxis, which perform an immunosuppressive function contributing to cancer progression.Aim. To search for the relationship between the white blood cell (WBC) count and some lipid profile parameters in cancer patients with myocardial infarction (MI).Material and methods. We examined 319 patients who were treated at Dzhanelidze Research Institute of Emergency Medicine in 2018-2023, which were divided into three groups: MI in combination with an active cancer — 132 patients (Group I), MI+cancer in history — 58 patients (Group II), MI without cancer — 129 patients (Group III). Following laboratory data used in routine practice were assessed: WBC count, relative neutrophil count, total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins.Results. Cancer patients with MI are characterized by higher WBC and neutrophil count than in other samples However, the total cholesterol level was significantly lower in this sample, and the LDL level was not significantly different. Patients with MI and previous cancer occupied an intermediate position between groups I and III in terms of studied parameters.Conclusion. In general, data on the role of cholesterol levels in cancer patients are contradictory. In particular, some studies have shown that elevated cholesterol levels are a potential risk factor for cancer. In our study, as in a number of others, no significant associations were identified between elevated cholesterol levels and the presence of cancer. Our study is a step towards understanding the connection between the cholesterol concentration and the immune response in cancer patients with MI.

Abstract Background The accurate measurement of Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is critical in the decision to utilize the new lipid-lowering therapies like PCSK9-inhibitors (PCSK9i) for high-risk cardiovascular disease patients that do not achieve sufficiently low LDL-C on statin therapy. Objective To improve the estimation of low LDL-C by developing a new equation that includes apolipoprotein B (apoB) as an independent variable, along with the standard lipid panel test results. Methods Using β-quantification (BQ) as the reference method, which was performed on a large dyslipidemic population (N = 24,406), the following enhanced Sampson-NIH equation (eS LDL-C) was developed by least-square regression analysis: $$eS\,LDL-C= \frac{TC}{1.15}-\frac{HDL-C}{1.25}-\frac{TG}{6.99}-\frac{\left(TG\times NonHDL-C\right)}{1120}+\frac{{TG}^{2}}{8910}+\frac{\left(TG\times ApoB\right)}{1240}+\frac{ApoB}{4.54}-4.73$$ e S L D L - C = TC 1.15 - H D L - C 1.25 - TG 6.99 - T G × N o n H D L - C 1120 + TG 2 8910 + T G × A p o B 1240 + ApoB 4.54 - 4.73 Results The eS LDL-C equation was the most accurate equation for a broad range of LDL-C values based on regression related parameters and the mean absolute difference (mg/dL) from the BQ reference method (eS LDL-C: 4.51, Sampson-NIH equation [S LDL-C]: 6.07; extended Martin equation [eM LDL-C]: 6.64; Friedewald equation [F LDL-C]: 8.3). It also had the best area-under-the-curve accuracy score by Regression Error Characteristic plots for LDL-C

Introduction: Depression is one of the leading causes of morbidity worldwide. It can impact various biomarkers, including proteins, monoamines, and lipids. Lipids play a critical role in regulating cellular function by influencing transport, anchoring, and providing structural support. The present study aimed to explore any correlation between lipid profiles and depression. Aim: To investigate the correlation between different lipid profile parameters (serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, serum Highdensity Lipoproteins (HDL), and Low-density Lipoproteins (LDL) levels) and the severity of depression. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana, India, from June 2020 to June 2021. A total of 200 participants aged 18-65 years, diagnosed with depression according to the ICD-10 classification, were enrolled. Clinical assessments were conducted, and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) (17 items) and Beck's Depression Inventory II (BDI II) (21-item scale) were used. Lipid parameters were obtained from fasting blood samples. The Wilcoxon’sMann-Whitney U test was applied to assess the association between gender distribution and lipid profiles. Spearman's correlation test was used to analyse the correlation between HAM-D and BDI scores with lipid profiles. Statistical significance was set at a p-value ≤0.05. Results: The mean age of the participants was 36.05±11.24 years. Correlations between HAM-D levels and lipid profiles revealed that all lipid parameters, except for HDL (which showed a negative correlation), were positively associated with HAM-D scores. These correlations were statistically significant (p ≤0.05). Similarly, a positive correlation was observed between all lipid levels and BDI scores, except for HDL, which exhibited a negative correlation. These correlations were also statistically significant (p≤0.05). Conclusion: Higher levels of LDL cholesterol were found to be associated with elevated depression rating scale scores and increased susceptibility to depression. On the other hand, HDL cholesterol demonstrated protective effects against depression. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, implementing dietary measures, and addressing stressors promptly may help prevent depressive symptoms.

Oxidative stress is one of the primary instigators of the onset of various human ailments, including cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and dementia. Particularly, oxidative stress severely affects low-density lipid & protein (LDL) oxidation, leading to several detrimental health effects. Therefore, in this study, the effect of beeswax alcohol (BWA) was evaluated in the prevention of LDL oxidation, enhancement of paraoxonase 1 (PON-1) activity of high-density lipid & protein (HDL), and zebrafish embryo survivability. Furthermore, the implication of BWA consumption on the oxidative plasma variables was assessed by a preliminary clinical study on middle-aged and older human subjects (n = 50). Results support BWA augmentation of PON-1 activity in a dose-dependent manner (10–30 μM), which was significantly better than the effect exerted by coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Moreover, BWA significantly curtails LDL/apo-B oxidation evoked by CuSO4 (final 0.5 μM) and a causes a marked reduction in lipid peroxidation in LDL. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed a healing effect of BWA towards the restoration of LDL morphology and size impaired by the exposure of Cu2+ ions (final 0.5 μM). Additionally, BWA counters the toxicity induced by carboxymethyllysine (CML, 500 ng) and rescues zebrafish embryos from development deformities and apoptotic cell death. A completely randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled preliminary clinical study on middle- and older-aged human subjects (n = 50) showed that 12 weeks of BWA (100 mg/day) supplementation efficiently diminished serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and total hydroperoxides and enhanced total antioxidant status by 25%, 27%, and 22%, respectively, compared to the placebo-control and baseline values. Furthermore, the consumption of BWA did not exhibit any noteworthy changes in physical variables, lipid profile, glucose levels, and biomarkers pertinent to kidney and liver function, thus confirming the safety of BWA for consumption. Conclusively, in vitro, BWA prevents LDL oxidation, enhances PON-1 activity in HDL, and positively influences oxidative variables in human subjects.

Background Childhood cancer survivors have increased risk of dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and associated cardiovascular risks of specific lipid abnormalities among childhood cancer survivors. Methods Comprehensive lipid panel measurements were obtained from 4115 5-year survivors, with 3406 (mean age at evaluation = 35.2 years, SD = 10.4 years) not having previous dyslipidemia diagnosis, as well as 624 age, sex, and race and ethnicity matched community controls. Results Previously undiagnosed dyslipidemia with abnormal low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (>160 mg/dL), non–high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (>190 mg/dL), HDL cholesterol (<40 mg/dL for men, <50 mg/dL for women), and triglycerides (>150 mg/dL) were identified in 4%, 6%, 30%, and 17%, respectively. Survivors without previous dyslipidemia diagnosis had higher LDL cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol than community controls. Cranial radiotherapy (relative risk [RR] = 2.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.6 to 3.0 for non-HDL cholesterol) and total body irradiation for hematopoietic cell transplantation (RR = 6.7, 95% CI = 3.5 to 13.0 for non-HDL cholesterol; RR = 9.9, 95% CI = 6.0 to 16.3 for triglycerides) were associated with greater risk of dyslipidemia. Diagnoses of low HDL cholesterol (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.8 to 4.7) and elevated triglycerides (HR = 3.1, 95% CI = 1.9 to 5.1) were associated with increased risk for myocardial infarction, and diagnoses of high LDL cholesterol (HR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.3 to 3.7), high non-HDL cholesterol (HR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.3 to 3.7), low HDL cholesterol (HR = 3.9, 95% CI = 2.8 to 5.4), and elevated triglycerides (HR = 3.8, 95% CI = 2.7 to 5.5) were associated with increased risk for cardiomyopathy. Conclusions Previously undiagnosed dyslipidemia among childhood cancer survivors was associated with increased risk for myocardial infarction and cardiomyopathy. Comprehensive dyslipidemia evaluation and treatment are needed to reduce cardiovascular morbidity in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Miniature Schnauzer dogs (MSs) are predisposed to both idiopathic hypertriglyceridemia (iHTG) and hypercortisolism (HCort). To our knowledge, the lipoprotein profiles of MSs with iHTG have not been compared to those with HCort. We analyzed cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations and lipoprotein fractions in 4 groups of MSs: normotriglyceridemia (NTG) without concurrent disease (Healthy-NTG), HCort and NTG (HCort-NTG), HCort and HTG (HCort-HTG), and iHTG. Lipoprotein fractions were assessed by lipoprotein electrophoresis and compared between groups. Fifty-one plasma samples were analyzed. Twenty-five dogs had NTG (16 Healthy-NTG, 9 HCort-NTG) and 26 dogs had HTG (7 iHTG, 19 HCort-HTG). Dogs with iHTG or HCort-HTG had significantly higher cholesterol concentrations than Healthy-NTG dogs. Dogs with HCort-HTG had higher cholesterol than HCort-NTG dogs. There was a significantly higher low-density lipoprotein (LDL) percentage in iHTG and HCort-HTG dogs than HCort-NTG dogs. HCort-HTG dogs also had lower high-density lipoproteins (HDL) than HCort-NTG dogs. It was not possible to readily distinguish MSs with iHTG from MSs with HCort-HTG or Healthy-NTG using lipoprotein electrophoresis fractions. The diagnosis of iHTG remains a diagnosis by exclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity and overweight, frequently caused by a lack of exercise, are associated with many metabolic diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Aerobic exercise effectively increases the high-density lipoproteins-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and alleviates the triglyceride (TG) levels. The consumption of Cuban policosanol (Raydel®) is also effective in enhancing the HDL-C quantity and HDL functionality to treat dyslipidemia and hypertension. On the other hand, no study has examined the effects of a combination of high-intensity exercise and policosanol consumption in obese subjects to improve metabolic disorders. In the current study, 17 obese subjects (average BMI 30.1 ± 1.1 kg/m2, eight male and nine female) were recruited to participate in a program combining exercise and policosanol (20 mg) consumption for 12 weeks. After completion, their BMI, waist circumference, total fat mass, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) reduced significantly up to around −15%, −13%, −33%, −11%, and −13%, respectively. In the serum lipid profile, at Week 12, a significant reduction was observed in the total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels, up to −17% and −54% from the baseline, respectively. The serum HDL-C was elevated by approximately +12% from the baseline, as well as the percentage of HDL-C in TC, and HDL-C/TC (%), was enhanced by up to +32% at Week 12. The serum coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) level was increased 1.2-fold from the baseline in all participants at Week 12. In particular, the male participants exhibited a 1.4-fold increase from the baseline. The larger rise in serum CoQ10 was correlated with the larger increase in the serum HDL-C (r = 0.621, p = 0.018). The hepatic function parameters were improved; the serum γ-glutamyl transferase decreased at Week 12 by up to −55% (p < 0.007), while the aspartate aminotransferase and alanine transaminase levels diminished within the normal range. In the lipoprotein level, the extent of oxidation and glycation were reduced significantly with the reduction in TG content. The antioxidant abilities of HDL, such as paraoxonase (PON) and ferric ion reduction ability (FRA), were enhanced significantly by up to 1.8-fold and 1.6-fold at Week 12. The particle size and number of HDL were elevated up to +10% during the 12 weeks, with a remarkable decline in the TG content, glycation extent, and oxidation. The improvements in HDL quality and functionality were linked to the higher survivability of adult zebrafish and their embryos, under the co-presence of carboxymethyllysine (CML), a pro-inflammatory molecule known to cause acute death. In conclusion, 12 weeks of Cuban policosanol (Raydel®, 20 mg) consumption with high-intensity exercise displayed a significant improvement in blood pressure, body fat mass, blood lipid profile without liver damage, CoQ10 metabolism, and renal impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Depression is one of the leading causes of morbidity worldwide. It can impact various biomarkers, including proteins, monoamines, and lipids. Lipids play a critical role in regulating cellular function by influencing transport, anchoring, and providing structural support. The present study aimed to explore any correlation between lipid profiles and depression. Aim: To investigate the correlation between different lipid profile parameters (serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, serum High-density Lipoproteins (HDL), and Low-density Lipoproteins (LDL) levels) and the severity of depression. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana, India, from June 2020 to June 2021. A total of 200 participants aged 18-65 years, diagnosed with depression according to the ICD-10 classification, were enrolled. Clinical assessments were conducted, and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) (17 items) and Beck's Depression Inventory II (BDI II) (21-item scale) were used. Lipid parameters were obtained from fasting blood samples. The Wilcoxon's-Mann-Whitney U test was applied to assess the association between gender distribution and lipid profiles. Spearman's correlation test was used to analyse the correlation between HAM-D and BDI scores with lipid profiles. Statistical significance was set at a p-value ≤0.05. Results: The mean age of the participants was 36.05±11.24 years. Correlations between HAM-D levels and lipid profiles revealed that all lipid parameters, except for HDL (which showed a negative correlation), were positively associated with HAM-D scores. These correlations were statistically significant (p ≤0.05). Similarly, a positive correlation was observed between all lipid levels and BDI scores, except for HDL, which exhibited a negative correlation. These correlations were also statistically significant (p≤0.05). Conclusion: Higher levels of LDL cholesterol were found to be associated with elevated depression rating scale scores and increased susceptibility to depression. On the other hand, HDL cholesterol demonstrated protective effects against depression. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, implementing dietary measures, and addressing stressors promptly may help prevent depressive symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study aimed to analyze low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and their relationship with mortality in order to identify the appropriate lipid profile for older Korean hemodialysis patients. Methods We enrolled a total of 2,732 incident hemodialysis patients aged > 70 years from a retrospective cohort of the Korean Society of Geriatric Nephrology from 2010 Jan to 2017 Dec, which included 17 academic hospitals in South Korea. Of these patients, 1,709 were statin-naïve, and 1,014 were analyzed after excluding those with missing LDL-C level data. We used multivariate Cox regression analysis to select risk factors from 20 clinical variables among the LDL-C groups. Results The mean age of the entire patient population was 78 years, with no significant differences in age between quartiles Q1 to Q4. However, the proportion of males decreased as the quartiles progressed towards Q4 (p

A pilot randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the effects of orticumab, a monoclonal antibody that targets oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), on coronary inflammation in patients with psoriasis. The study found that treatment with orticumab reduced the Fat Attenuation Index (FAI) score, a measure of coronary inflammation, in patients with high levels of inflammation but had no effect in those with low levels of inflammation. The study suggests that targeting oxLDL with orticumab may reduce coronary inflammation and potentially lower the risk of fatal cardiac events in patients with elevated inflammation. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and clinical implications of this treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Scientific relevance. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide. Dyslipidemia, as the pathophysiological basis of atherosclerosis, is the most important cause of CVD. Among the factors that modify this pathology, the World Health Organisation lists statins, which effectively reduce the cholesterol level. However, statin treatment compliance is not sufficient to achieve population-based lipid targets. This is a powerful stimulus for the creation of fundamentally new groups of lipid-lowering agents, in particular, antagonists of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9).Aim. The study aimed to review innovative approaches to developing a new generation of lipid-lowering agents, PCSK9 antagonists, and to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and clinical potential of these medicines.Discussion. PCSK9 antagonists significantly increase the effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapy when combined with statins and are an effective monotherapy in patients with contraindications for statins. PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies, as well as inclisiran, have a favourable risk–benefit ratio. However, the high cost of commercially available PCSK9 antagonists limits their clinical use. A number of promising directions exist for developing new PCSK9 antagonists that have fundamentally different mechanisms of action, such as adnectins; genome editing with CRISPR/Cas9; combining small molecules with low molecular weight PCSK9 inhibitors; PCSK9 vaccines; and antisense oligonucleotides. Medicinal products from these groups are currently at various stages of preclinical and clinical development.Conclusions. Therefore, new lipid-lowering agents can be developed by synthesising high and low molecular weight PCSK9 ligands and by altering the genetic mechanisms of PCSK9 synthesis. The innovative medicines considered in this review are highly effective, and most have shown no signs of toxicity at the pre-authorisation stage.

Background and aims: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is among the most common genetic disorders in primary care. However, only 15% or less of patients are diagnosed, and few achieve the goals for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). In this analysis of the German Cascade Screening and Registry for High Cholesterol (CaRe High), we examined the status of lipid management, treatment strategies, and LDL-C goal attainment according to the ESC/EAS dyslipidemia guidelines. Methods: We evaluated consolidated datasets from 1501 FH patients diagnosed clinically and seen either by lipid specialists or general practitioners and internists. We conducted a questionnaire survey of both the recruiting physicians and patients. Results: Among the 1501 patients, 86% regularly received lipid-lowering drugs. LDL-C goals were achieved by 26% and 10% of patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) according to the 2016 and 2019 ESC/EAS dyslipidemia guidelines, respectively. High intensity lipid-lowering was administered more often in men than in women, in patients with ASCVD, at higher LDL-C and in patients with a genetic diagnosis of FH. Conclusions: FH is under-treated in Germany compared to guideline recommendations. Male gender, genetic proof of FH, treatment by a specialist, and presence of ASCVD appear to be associated with increased treatment intensity. Achieving the LDL-C goals of the 2019 ESC/EAS dyslipidemia guidelines remains challenging if pre-treatment LDL-C is very high.

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide. Cardiovascular mortality rate is steadily increasing despite the large-scale preventive measures. Familial hypercholesterolemia is the most common genetically determined disorder of lipid metabolism as the major cause of blood circulatory system diseases development and progression. Worldwide, there are 6.8–8.5 million children with this primary dyslipidemia. Early (in childhood) diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia is crucial for the timely initiation of lipid-lowering therapy in order to reduce the atherosclerosis progression and the risk of life-threatening cardiovascular events. New screening programs have been implemented, new biomarkers of the disease have been studied, and lipid-lowering drugs with new mechanisms of hypolipidemic action have been developed to increase the efficacy of these activities in economically developed countries.

The influence of adiponectin, a protein secreted by adipocytes, on the activation of transendothelial LDL transport, the initial event of atherogenesis, was studied. The addition of adiponectin to the cultured endothelial hybridoma EA.hy926 cells did not affect both basal and TNF-stimulated transendothelial transport of LDL. In addition, adiponectin affects neither expression levels of CAV1, SCARB1, and ACVRL1 genes encoding proteins involved in transendothelial LDL transport, nor the MMP secretion by the EA.hy926cells. At the same time, adiponectin suppressed the TNF-stimulated IL-8 production and expression of the adhesion molecule gene ICAM1 in these cells. Thus, adiponectin reduces proinflammatory activation of EA.hy926 cells, which is not accompanied by changes in the transendothelial LDL transport. We speculate that anti-inflammatory action of adiponectin is the base for the influence of this adipokine on atherogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities of beeswax alcohol (BWA) are well reported in animal and human clinical studies, with a significant decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) in the blood, reduced liver steatosis, and decreased insulin. However, there has been insufficient information to explain BWAs in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity owing to its limited solubility in an aqueous buffer system. Herein, three distinct reconstituted high-density lipoproteins (rHDL) were prepared with palmitoyloleoyl phosphatidylcholine (POPC), cholesterol, apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), and BWA at molar ratios of 95:5:1:0 (rHDL-0), 95:5:1:0.5 (rHDL-0.5), and 95:5:1:1 (rHDL-1) and examined for antioxidant and anti-glycation effects. A rHDL containing BWA, precisely rHDL-1, displayed a remarkable anti-glycation effect against fructose (final 250 mM), induced glycation of HDL, and prevented proteolytic degradation of apoA-I. Also, BWA incorporated rHDL-0.5, and rHDL-1 displayed substantial antioxidant activity by inhibiting cupric ion-mediated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation. In contrast to rHDL-0, a 20 and 22% enhancement in ferric ion reduction ability (FRA) and paraoxonase (PON) activity was observed in HDL treated with rHDL-1, signifying the effect of BWA on the antioxidant activity enhancement of HDL. rHDL-1 efficiently inhibits Nε-carboxylmethyllysine (CML)-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and apoptosis in zebrafish embryos, consequently improving embryo survivability and developmental deformities impaired by the CML. The dermal application of rHDL-1 to the CML-impaired cutaneous wound of the adult zebrafish inhibited ROS production and displayed potent wound-healing activity. Conclusively, incorporating BWA in rHDL significantly enhanced the anti-glycation and antioxidant activities in rHDL via more stabilization of apoA-I with a larger particle size. The rHDL containing BWA facilitated the inherent antioxidant ability of HDL to suppress the CML-induced toxicities in zebrafish embryos and ameliorate CML-aggravated chronic wounds in adult zebrafish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Betamethasone, a fluorinated and synthetic steroid, is a commonly used glucocorticoid. To our knowledge, no available studies exist concerning the hyperlipidemic effect of betamethasone dipropionate (BDP) in rabbits. Therefore, the current study was conducted to highlight the effects of intramuscular injection of BDP on lipid profile in rabbits, investigate the possible mechanism underlying the produced effects and evaluate the possible antihyperlipidemic effect of atorvastatin (ATR) and fenofibrate (FFB). For this purpose, twenty male New Zealand rabbits were classified into control, BDP (0.5 ml/kg B.wt/ IM/day/single dose), BDP+ATR; rabbits were IM injected with BDP, then they were orally given ATR (1.9 mg./kg. B.wt./ once/ day/ month) and group IV (BDP+FFB); rabbits were IM injected with BDP then they were orally given FFB (7.5 mg/kg B.wt/ once/ day/ month). The obtained result revealed that single IM injection of BDP produced a significant elevation in triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL level with a significant decline in HDL in comparison to control group on the 3rd, 7th, 14th, 21st, 30th day of the experiment. On the 30th day of the experiment there was an increase in the ALT, AST, MDA, VCAM-1 as well as a significant decrease in TAC. Furthermore, BDP induced a significant increase in HMG-COA reductase gene expression and a significant decrease in lipoprotein lipase gene expression. Oral administration of ATR or FFB concurrently with BDP for a month succeeded in reducing the hyperlipidemia induced by BDP in rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) or its prodrug, tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF), is currently being recommended in treatment of HIV infection. The distinct pharmacological properties of these two forms of this drug make TAF treatment less nephrotoxic and lead to a better impact on bone density. Nevertheless, a rising concern about TAF's possible metabolic adverse effects exists. This study aimed to evaluate the effects on the lipid profile among ART (antiretroviral therapy) patients switching from a TDF-containing to a TAF-containing regimen in the first year after the switch. Methods. Demographic and clinical data of HIV-positive ART-experienced patients treated in the infectious diseases department was retrospectively collected. Lipid profile change concerning baseline BMI, age, and time of ART duration were analysed. Results. In the group of 36 patients, there was a significant increase in total cholesterol levels (+18.43 mg/dl, SD = 23.86 mg/dl, p < 0.0001) and LDL levels (+13.75 mg/dl, SD = 23.05 mg/dl, p = 0.001) in the first 12 months after switching from a TDF-containing to a TAF-containing regimen. There were no statistically significant changes in both HDL and TG levels observed. Analysis of total cholesterol and LDL levels in specific subpopulations revealed a significant increase within the first year after the switch in patients younger than 40 years old and in those whose BMI was within the normal range. Conclusions. The data suggests that switching from TDF to TAF in ART-experienced patients may be associated with worsening lipid parameters. Early detection and management of dyslipidemias among HIV-positive patients are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of water-soluble C60 fullerenes (C60) at different doses of intra peritoneal administration (1 and 2 mg/kg) on the development of rhabdomyolytic renal failure of various severity degrees (introduction of 50% glycerol solution intramuscularly into the muscle soleus in doses of 5, 10 and 15 mg/kg) is evaluated during 3, 6 and 9 days of the experiment. It is established that the greatest therapeutic effect in reducing the fractional excretion of sodium occurs, when using the C60 aqueous solution at a dose of 2 mg/kg on the 9 th day after the development of rhabdomyolysis. As shown, the injections of the C60 aqueous solution at a dose of 1 mg/kg reduce the content of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in the blood of rats by 13–18% on average, and increasing the dose of C60 aqueous solution twice (2 mg/kg) contributes decrease in the LDL level only in severe stages of rhabdomyolysis. This is confirmed by histopathological analysis of kidney tissue (a decrease in the degree of tubular and interstitial necroses as well as of renal glomeruli retraction is observed). The С60 therapy proposed for the first time for this pathology opens up new perspectives for clinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to analyze low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and their relationship with mortality in order to identify the appropriate lipid profile for older Korean hemodialysis patients. Methods: We enrolled a total of 2,732 incident hemodialysis patients aged > 70 years from a retrospective cohort of the Korean Society of Geriatric Nephrology from 2010 Jan to 2017 Dec, which included 17 academic hospitals in South Korea. Of these patients, 1,709 were statin-naïve, and 1,014 were analyzed after excluding those with missing LDL-C level data. We used multivariate Cox regression analysis to select risk factors from 20 clinical variables among the LDL-C groups. Results: The mean age of the entire patient population was 78 years, with no significant differences in age between quartiles Q1 to Q4. However, the proportion of males decreased as the quartiles progressed towards Q4 (p < 0.001). The multivariate Cox regression analysis, which included all participants, showed that low LDL-C levels were associated with all-cause mortality. In the final model, compared to Q1, the hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) were 0.77 (0.620–0.972; p = 0.027), 0.85 (0.676–1.069; p = 0.166), and 0.65 (0.519–0.824; p < 0.001) for Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively, after adjusting for covariates, such as conventional and age-specific risk factors. The final model demonstrated that all-cause mortality increased as LDL-C levels decreased, as confirmed by a restrictive cubic spline plot. Conclusions: In older hemodialysis patients who had not previously received dyslipidemia treatment, elevated LDL-C levels were not associated with increased all-cause mortality. Intriguingly, lower LDL-C levels appear to be associated with an unfavorable effect on all-cause mortality among high-risk hemodialysis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal in cardiovascular prevention is the reduction of morbidity and mortality through the promotion of healthy lifestyles in the general population. The management of modifiable risk factors with pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, based on the individual risk is the first strategy suggested by the current guidelines. Several epidemiological studies have clearly shown the direct correlation between high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and incidence of cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, numerous randomized clinical studies have reported a huge benefit in terms of major cardiovascular events achievable by the reduction of LDL-C, thus supporting the notion that “the lower is better”. Among the lipid-lowering strategies, statins are the drugs of choice in cardiovascular prevention, at both primary and secondary level. To achieve the ambitious targets suggested by the current guidelines, other lipid-lowering therapies are currently available in addition to statins, such as ezetimibe the inhibitors of the PCSK9. Pharmacological research has recently led to the development of a new drug, the bempedoic acid, which further enrich the available therapies. This drug also acts on the biosynthesis of cholesterol but at upstream level than statins. From the biochemical point of view, it has the potential to be considered before the statin with consequent titration of statins to achieve the desirable LDL-C target. In the present review, the biochemical and pharmacological characteristics of bempedoic acid are discussed. An overview of the clinical data that support its use in the management of the cardiovascular patient and its allocation in the lipid-lowering scenario will be also provided.

Abstract Background Hypercholesterolemia is a lipid disorder characterized by excessively high levels of low-density lipoproteins, which encourages fat accumulation in your arteries, hence escalating the chances of heart attack and stroke. Globally, 39% of individuals experience elevated total cholesterol levels with 98.6 million DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) caused by high non-HDL cholesterol in 2019, supposedly killing 4.4 million people. Main body LDL cholesterol is the primary target of treatment for lowering the risk of cardiovascular events in both primary and secondary prevention. The usual drug to achieve this goal is HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins), which constitute the most potent and effective class to reduce LDL cholesterol. The current treatment of choice for hypercholesterolemia is statin therapy; however, a considerable proportion of patients are unable to reach their desired low-density lipoproteins levels (LDL), while some cannot take statins at all. The regular use and possible non-adherence to long-term therapy of statins have prompted the development of novel PCSK9-targeting drugs such as inclisiran—a synthesized small interfering RNA. Inclisiran binds to the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) mRNA causing its disintegration and hence preventing its formation. This results in reduced amounts of PCSK9 both within and outside the cells, which significantly lowers LDL levels. Multiple double-blind, placebo-controlled Osaka Emergency Information Research Intelligence Operation Network System (ORION) trials were conducted; ORION-9 was conducted on patients with familial hypercholesterolemia and LDL cholesterol levels higher than 100 mg/dl despite taking the maximum dose of statin therapy, whereas ORION-10 and ORION-11 were conducted on patients with cardiovascular disease or having its risk factors. These patients were administered Inclisiran injections on days 1, 90 (month 3), 270 (month 9), and 450 (month 15) and were followed for 540 days. The results showed decreased LDL levels by 51% compared to the placebo and further established a strong link with reduced major adverse cardiac events rates with no effect on creatinine kinase and liver function test levels. The drug’s significant side effect was reported to be an injection site reaction. Conclusion Inclisiran may be utilized alone or in conjunction with other lipid-lowering treatments in individuals who are unable to take statins or for whom they are contraindicated. Furthermore, its exceptional stability throughout a broad range of heat conditions makes its use well-suited for developing countries.

Eggs are a compelling source of bioactive compounds. Membrane separation is a green technology that allow components to be obtained while preserving their biological activity. The objective of this study was to assess the application of membrane separation technology to egg products. Whole egg plasma, egg yolk plasma and egg white were tangential flow filtrated evaluating the effect of the pore size and membrane materials. Transmission of dry matter and proteins from feed to filtrate was noticed in all the processes. Nevertheless, cholesterol and carotenoids were not detected at filtrates from 750 kDa to 0.2 wn when mixed ester or polyethersulfone were the membrane materials. The interactions between egg yolk and egg white components difficult the separation. Cholesterol was part of low-density lipoproteins. These lipoproteins together with carotenoids were filtrated with modified polyethersulfone at a minimum pore size of 0.2 pm. High uncertainty was obtained due to low-density lipoproteins aggregation. Three kinds of aggregates can justify these results: low-density lipoproteins aggregated themselves, low-density lipoproteins bound to ovomucin and other smaller egg white proteins (< 750 kDa), and low-density lipoproteins bound only to smaller egg white proteins. The detected chelate effect of egg white proteins could be important in uiuo, Therefore, research should be led to assess the influence of cooking method and digestion of the different egg components on the bioaccessibility of nutrients and the generation of bioactive peptides. Moreover, the filtration processes analysed herein may be useful techniques for liquid food matrix studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the primary contributor to global mortality rates, which significantly escalates healthcare expenditures. Risk factors for ASCVD (including dyslipidemia) frequently present in clusters rather than separately. Addressing these risk factors is crucial in the early initiation of a comprehensive management plan that involves both lifestyle modifications and pharmacotherapy to reduce the impact of ASCVD. A team of Jordanian professionals from various medical organizations and institutes took the initiative to create a set of guidelines for dyslipidemia screening and therapy. A detailed, comprehensive literature review was undertaken utilizing several databases and keywords. This consensus statement provides recommendations for dyslipidemia management in Jordanians on several issues including cardiovascular risk estimation, screening eligibility, risk categories, treatment goals, lifestyle changes, and statin and non-statin therapies. It is recommended that all Jordanian individuals aged 20 years old or older undergo lipid profile testing. This should be followed by determining the level of cardiovascular risk depending on the presence or absence of ASCVD and cardiovascular risk factors, eligibility for lipid-lowering therapy, and the target low-density cholesterol serum level to be achieved. In conclusion, prioritizing the management of dyslipidemia is of the utmost importance in improving public health and reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart and metabolic diseases are very common in society today. There are many special features in their manifestation that have influence on prognosis and therapy approaches. Among them are gender characteristics. The aim of the research was to determine the gender peculiarities of disorders of lipid metabolism in patients with coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The study of the blood lipid spectrum in patients with coronary heart disease and T2DM was conducted in 72 patients aged 37 to 85 years old. The patients with coronary heart disease were divided into 2 groups depending on the presence or absence of T2DM: 1 group (n = 40) – patients with coronary heart disease only (Stable Angina Pectoris); group 2 (n = 32) – patients with coronary heart disease and T2DM. Each group was divided into subgroups depending on the gender of the patients: 1A and 2A – males, 1B and 2B – females. Despite the presence of T2DM, a majority of patients with coronary heart disease were overweight and obese. At the same time, obesity was more common in the female subgroups (1B – 45.0%, 2B – 64.7%) than in the male subgroups (1A – 35.0% and 2A – 33.3% respectively). There was an increase in the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins for impaired lipid metabolism in patients with coronary heart disease. There was a slightly higher level of total cholesterol (6.12 ± 2.06 mmol/L) and low-density lipoproteins (4.24 ± 1.79 mmol/L) and a lower level of triglycerides (1.63 ± 0.65 mmol/L) in females than in males (5.15 ± 1.29, 3.71 ± 1.14 and 2.40 ± 1.06 mmol/l, respectively). Disruption of lipid metabolism was characterized predominantly by an increase in levels of triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins in blood in patients with coronary heart disease and T2DM regardless of gender. About a quarter of males (25.0% with coronary heart disease and 26.7% with coronary heart disease with T2DM) and females with T2DM (23.5%) reached the target total cholesterol level (

El impacto de los cambios bioquímicos en el adulto mayor tiene el mismo factor en común ya que, presentan alteraciones en su vejez y los descritos se ven en el metabolismo de la glucosa como: morfológicos y funcionales. Los primeros se asocian a un aumento de grasa visceral, infiltración grasa de tejidos y menor masa de células beta, los segundos se observan en una mayor producción de adipocinas factores inflamatorios, al igual que, una mayor resistencia insulínica y diabetes. Los cambios en el metabolismo lipídico fluctúan y alteran las lipoproteínas, colesterol y triglicéridos; se puede evidenciar al medir dichos analitos séricos provocando así dislipidemias. La investigación está enfocada en identificar los principales cambios bioquímicos en los análisis de glucosa y perfil lipídico (colesterol, triglicéridos, HDL y LDL) en una población de 89 adultos mayores de la provincia de Tungurahua, Ecuador, a través de un estudio con diseño descriptivo, transversal, de campo. Mediante el software Minitab versión 18.1, se pudo determinar que con un intervalo de confianza del 95% no existen cambios en los analitos de glucosa, colesterol total, HDL y LDL. Por otra parte, con un intervalo de confianza del 95% del 100%, el 14% pueden tener un valor sobre los 150mg/dL en el analito de triglicéridos tanto en hombres como en mujeres. El porcentaje de pacientes con tendencia a padecer cambios bioquímicos es relativamente bajo en nuestra investigación, por lo que se ha determinado como un factor protector la actividad física que desarrollan los pacientes del estudio dado su forma de trabajo, pese a ello se destaca a la hipertrigliceridemia en un 14%. Asimismo, un alto porcentaje de pacientes geriátricos manifiesta haber desarrollado diabetes en un 64% (n= 57), pero demuestran un escaso conocimiento de la enfermedad, ya que dicen padecerla, pero no se refleja en los resultados de laboratorio que presenten tal enfermedad.

The goal in cardiovascular prevention is the reduction of morbidity and mortality through the promotion of healthy lifestyles in the general population. The management of modifiable risk factors with pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, based on the individual risk is the first strategy suggested by the current guidelines. Several epidemiological studies have clearly shown the direct correlation between high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and incidence of cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, numerous randomized clinical studies have reported a huge benefit in terms of major cardiovascular events achievable by the reduction of LDL-C, thus supporting the notion that "the lower is better". Among the lipid-lowering strategies, statins are the drugs of choice in cardiovascular prevention, at both primary and secondary level. To achieve the ambitious targets suggested by the current guidelines, other lipid-lowering therapies are currently available in addition to statins, such as ezetimibe the inhibitors of the PCSK9. Pharmacological research has recently led to the development of a new drug, the bempedoic acid, which further enrich the available therapies. This drug also acts on the biosynthesis of cholesterol but at upstream level than statins. From the biochemical point of view, it has the potential to be considered before the statin with consequent titration of statins to achieve the desirable LDL-C target. In the present review, the biochemical and pharmacological characteristics of bempedoic acid are discussed. An overview of the clinical data that support its use in the management of the cardiovascular patient and its allocation in the lipid-lowering scenario will be also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several preclinical studies have focused on the beneficial effects of garlic on cardiovascular diseases, but the results were inconsistent. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis on the effect of garlic powder tablets and aged garlic extract (AGE) in CAD patients, mainly focusing on blood pressure, coronary artery calcification, lipid profile, and inflammatory markers. We searched PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Google Scholar to identify randomized controlled trials which examined garlic's effect on CAD patients. The standardized mean difference with 95% CI was calculated using fixed‐effect or random‐effect models. Garlic has shown statistically significant changes of HDL (SMD = 0.18; 95% CI = −0.00 to 0.37; p =.05); LDL (SMD = −0.27; 95% CI = −0.46 to −0.08; p =.004), apolipoprotein‐A (SMD = 0.68; 95% CI = 0.24 1.13; p =.002), C‐RP (SMD = −0.59; 95% CI = −0.92 to −0.25; p =.0007), IL‐6 (SMD = −1.08; 95% CI = −2.17 to 0.01; p =.05), homocysteine (SMD = −0.66; 95% CI = −1.04 to −0.28; p =.0007) and CAC score (SMD = −1.61; 95% CI = −2.66 to −0.57; p =.003). In the case of subgroup analysis, the overall effect was significantly effective in reducing TC, LDL levels and improving HDL levels in CV risk patients. Our study findings provide consistent evidence that intake of garlic reduces CVD risk factors. However, garlic could be considered a safe natural medicine to debilitate inflammation in CAD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) or its prodrug tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF) are currently being recommended in treatment of HIV infection. Distinct pharmacological properties of these two forms of a this drug make TAF treatment less nephrotoxic and lead to better impact on bone density. Nevertheless, there is a rising concern about possible metabolic adverse effects of TAF. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects on the lipid profile among ART (antiretroviral therapy)-experienced patients switching from TDF‑containing to TAF‑containing regimen in the first year after the switch. Methods. Demographic and clinical data of HIV‑positive ART‑experienced patients treated in infectious diseases department was retrospectively collected. Changes of lipid profile with regards to baseline BMI, age and time of ART duration were analyzed. Results. In the group of 36 patients there was a significant increase in total cholesterol levels (+18.43 mg/dl, SD = 23.86 mg/dl, p

Obesity and overweight, frequently caused by a lack of exercise, are associated with many metabolic diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Aerobic exercise effectively increases the high-density lipoproteins-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and alleviates the triglyceride (TG) levels. The consumption of Cuban policosanol (Raydel®) is also effective in enhancing the HDL-C quantity and HDL functionality to treat dyslipidemia and hypertension. On the other hand, no study has examined the effects of a combination of high-intensity exercise and policosanol consumption in obese subjects to improve metabolic disorders. In the current study, 17 obese subjects (average BMI 30.1 ± 1.1 kg/m2, eight male and nine female) were recruited to participate in a program combining exercise and policosanol (20 mg) consumption for 12 weeks. After completion, their BMI, waist circumference, total fat mass, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) reduced significantly up to around −15%, −13%, −33%, −11%, and −13%, respectively. In the serum lipid profile, at Week 12, a significant reduction was observed in the total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels, up to −17% and −54% from the baseline, respectively. The serum HDL-C was elevated by approximately +12% from the baseline, as well as the percentage of HDL-C in TC, and HDL-C/TC (%), was enhanced by up to +32% at Week 12. The serum coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) level was increased 1.2-fold from the baseline in all participants at Week 12. In particular, the male participants exhibited a 1.4-fold increase from the baseline. The larger rise in serum CoQ10 was correlated with the larger increase in the serum HDL-C (r = 0.621, p = 0.018). The hepatic function parameters were improved; the serum γ-glutamyl transferase decreased at Week 12 by up to −55% (p < 0.007), while the aspartate aminotransferase and alanine transaminase levels diminished within the normal range. In the lipoprotein level, the extent of oxidation and glycation were reduced significantly with the reduction in TG content. The antioxidant abilities of HDL, such as paraoxonase (PON) and ferric ion reduction ability (FRA), were enhanced significantly by up to 1.8-fold and 1.6-fold at Week 12. The particle size and number of HDL were elevated up to +10% during the 12 weeks, with a remarkable decline in the TG content, glycation extent, and oxidation. The improvements in HDL quality and functionality were linked to the higher survivability of adult zebrafish and their embryos, under the co-presence of carboxymethyllysine (CML), a pro-inflammatory molecule known to cause acute death. In conclusion, 12 weeks of Cuban policosanol (Raydel®, 20 mg) consumption with high-intensity exercise displayed a significant improvement in blood pressure, body fat mass, blood lipid profile without liver damage, CoQ10 metabolism, and renal impairment.

The aim. To optimize the diagnostic algorithm for patients with true “possible” familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and differential diagnosis with hypercholesterolemia on the background of comorbid endocrinopathies for selection of optimal hypolipidemic therapy. Materials and methods. We examined 130 patients with hypercholesterolemia and comorbid pathology (type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, obesity grade II-III). In each group, subgroups with low-density lipoproteins (LDL) ≥5 mmol/l were selected and followed up on the background of maximum tolerated doses of statins in combination with therapy aimed to compensate comorbid pathology. The control group consisted of 20 patients with verified FH. Results and discussion. Combined dyslipidemia was detected in groups 1 and 3, pure hypercholesterolemia in group 2. Direct correlations between lipid profile and comorbid pathology characteristics were revealed. Patients of the subgroups with “possible” FH had higher atherogenicity of the lipid profile associated with comorbid pathology destabilization and high percentage of atherosclerosis of carotid and coronary arteries. According to the results of the follow-up, it was established that statin therapy and comorbid pathology compensation led to the achievement of target levels of LDL (group 3) or a reduction of LDL by 50% (group 1, 2). In patients of the control group, statin therapy with maximally tolerated doses did not show such results. Conclusions. The cohort of patients defined as having “possible” FH is heterogeneous and may include patients with secondary dyslipidemia on the background of comorbid pathology destabilization, timely verification and treatment of which contributes to achieving the goals of lipid-lowering therapy. Taking into account that only obese patients reached the target level of LDL

Statins have long occupied a central place in cardiovascular medicine, being an integral component of the prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (coronary heart disease and its main clinical forms, angina pectoris and myocardial infarction; transient ischemic attacks, ischemic strokes, etc.). By blocking a key enzyme of cholesterol biosynthesis, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA-reductase), statins normalize the parameters of the lipid spectrum, primarily, the serum levels of atherogenic low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. However, in addition to the beneficial effects of statins, side effects are also characteristic, which are a significant problem in modern clinical practice due to the fact that they can cause dangerous disorders, forcing physicians to reduce dosages or completely cancel these drugs. Understanding the side effects and the mechanisms underlying their formation is important for improving the measures for the early detection, prevention and treatment of those disorders. This article discusses such side effects of statins as myotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity. The pathogenetic mechanisms underlying these toxic effects of statins are discussed. A particular attention is paid to the effect of statins on the oxidative stress, the mechanisms of oxidative damage to cellular macromolecules (lipids, proteins and DNA) and their potential role in the development of myotoxicity, hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is generated by the interaction between environmental and genetic factors, and the presence of metabolic alterations. Since Taq1B cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) polymorphism is associated with abnormal serum lipid values, it could be related to NAFLD. The aim of this study was to determine the role of the Taq1B CETP polymorphism with serum lipids, anthropometric variables, and the extent of steatosis in Mexican-mestizo women with gallstone disease (GD). Methods: Sixty-two women were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Serum lipids were determined by dry chemistry. The Taq1B CETP polymorphism was determined by allelic discrimination. CETP serum levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the extent of steatosis with a biopsy staining with Oil-Red-O. Results: Subjects with the B1B2/B2B2 genotype had higher percentage of degree of steatosis than those with B1B1 (11.95% vs. 2.19%, P = 0.008). The B1B2/B2B2 genotype (odds ratio [OR] 3.90 [confidence interval {CI} 95% 1.891–8.536], P = 0.04) and an elevated low-density lipoproteins (LDL)-cholesterol (OR 3.54 [CI 95% 1.042–2.058, P = 0.039) significantly increase the risk for NAFLD. Conclusions: This study provides evidence that the B1B2/B2B2 genotype of CETP and the elevated LDL-cholesterol serum levels increase the risk of NAFLD in women with GD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regular exercise, especially aerobic exercise, is beneficial for increasing serum high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in the general population. In addition to the HDL-C quantity, exercise enhances HDL functionality, antioxidants, and cholesterol efflux. On the other hand, the optimal intensity and frequency of exercise to increase HDL quantity and enhance HDL quality in middle-aged women need to be determined. The current study was designed to compare the changes in HDL quantity and quality among middle-aged women depending on exercise intensity, frequency, and duration; participants were divided into a sedentary group (group 1), a middle-intensity group (group 2), and a high-intensity group (group 3). There were no differences in anthropometric parameters among the groups, including blood pressure, muscle mass, and handgrip strength. Although there was no difference in serum total cholesterol (TC) among the groups, the serum HDL-C and apolipoprotein (apo)A-I levels remarkably increased to 17% and 12%, respectively, in group 3. Serum low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), glucose, triglyceride, and the apo-B/apoA-I ratio were remarkably decreased in the exercise groups depending on the exercise intensity; group 3 showed 13%, 10%, and 45% lower LDL-C, glucose, and triglyceride (TG), respectively, than group 1. The hepatic and muscle damage parameter, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), was significantly decreased in the exercise groups, but high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and γ-glutamyl transferase (γ-GTP) were similar in the three groups. In LDL, the particle size was increased 1.5-fold (p < 0.001), and the oxidation extent was decreased by 40% with a 23% lower TG content in group 3 than in group 1. In the exercise groups (groups 2 and 3), LDL showed the slowest electromobility with a distinct band intensity compared to the sedentary group (group 1). In HDL2, the particle size was 2.1-fold increased (p < 0.001) in the exercise group (group 3) with a 1.5-fold increase in TC content compared to that in group 1, as well as significantly enhanced antioxidant abilities, paraoxonase (PON) activity, and ferric ion reduction ability (FRA). In HDL3, the particle size was increased 1.2-fold with a 45% reduction in TG in group 3 compared to group 1. With increasing exercise intensity, apoA-I expression was increased in HDL2 and HDL3, and PON activity and FRA were enhanced (p < 0.001). In conclusion, regular exercise in middle-aged women is associated with the elevation of serum HDL-C and apoA-I with the enhancement of HDL quality and functionality and an increase in the TC content, particle size, and antioxidant abilities. With the reduction in TG and oxidized products in LDL and HDL, lipoproteins could have more anti-atherogenic properties through regular exercise in an intensity-dependent manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart and metabolic diseases are very common in society today. There are many special features in their manifestation that have influence on prognosis and therapy approaches. Among them are gender characteristics. The aim of the research was to determine the gender peculiarities of disorders of lipid metabolism in patients with coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The study of the blood lipid spectrum in patients with coronary heart disease and T2DM was conducted in 72 patients aged 37 to 85 years old. The patients with coronary heart disease were divided into 2 groups depending on the presence or absence of T2DM: 1 group (n = 40) – patients with coronary heart disease only (Stable Angina Pectoris); group 2 (n = 32) – patients with coronary heart disease and T2DM. Each group was divided into subgroups depending on the gender of the patients: 1A and 2A – males, 1B and 2B– females. Despite the presence of T2DM, a majority of patients with coronary heart disease were overweight and obese. At the same time, obesity was more common in the female subgroups (1B – 45.0%, 2B – 64.7%) than in the male subgroups (1A – 35.0% and 2A – 33.3% respectively). There was an increase in the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins for impaired lipid metabolism in patients with coronary heart disease. There was a slightly higher level of total cholesterol (6.12 ± 2.06mmol/L) and low-density lipoproteins (4.24 ± 1.79 mmol/L) and a lower level of triglycerides (1.63 ± 0.65 mmol/L) in females than in males (5.15 ± 1.29, 3.71 ± 1.14 and 2.40 ± 1.06 mmol/l, respectively). Disruption of lipid metabolism was characterized predominantly by an increase in levels of triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins in blood in patients with coronary heart disease and T2DM regardless of gender. About a quarter of males (25.0% with coronary heart disease and 26.7% with coronary heart disease with T2DM) and females with T2DM (23.5%) reached the target total cholesterol level (<4.0 mmol/L), less frequently females with coronary heart disease (15.0%). The incidence of low-density lipoproteins target (<1.8 mmol/L) was significantly lower than total cholesterol: about 5.0% in males (regardless of the presence of T2DM) and 10.0% in females with coronary heart disease. Women with coronary heart disease and T2DM did not reach the target low-density lipoproteins level (<1.8 mmol/L). In most patients with coronary heart disease dyslipidemia grade II by Fredrickson was observed regardless of the presence of T2DM: in 100% of patients with coronary heart disease and 81.1% of patients with coronary heart disease and T2DM. A distinctive feature of impaired lipid metabolism in patients with coronary heart disease and T2DM is the presence in some of patients of Dyslipidemia grade IV by Fredrickson (6.7% of males and 5.9% of females) and the absence of Dyslipidemia class IIa in males in this group. Analysis of the achievement of the target levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins indicates insufficient prescribing of adequate hypolipidemic therapy for patients with coronary heart disease and T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Today, the possible side effects of chemical medicines in the treatment of various diseases, on the one hand and the positive effects of herbal medicines and reducing the negative effects of their use on the other hand, have led researchers to identify, analyze, purify and use beneficial compounds in such plants. Olive leaf extract, due to its beneficial chemical compounds, has been used as an effective herbal medicine in the treatment of various human and animal diseases. Methods: In this study, the effect of olive leaf nutrition in different weeks of breeding period on performance and metabolic abnormalities was investigated; using 336 male Arian strain chickens in a completely randomized format with six treatments, four replications, and14 birds in each replication for of broiler blood, such as triglycerides, cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), total protein, and blood glucose based on the AOAO 1990 method, were assessed. Results: The mean difference of blood metabolites such as triglyceride and HDL among different treatments were not significant (P=0.05), however, for LDL and blood cholesterol levels this difference was significant (P <0.05). Regarding the anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic function of olive leaf extract in regulating blood glucose and increasing serum insulin, as well as the average total protein, the results showed no significant difference. Conclusions: As a conclusion, the results of this research showed that the use of 1% olive leaves in broiler chickens' diet does not have a negative effect on functional traits and live weight. Therefore, present results emphasize that broiler chickens can be given olive leaf extract at 1%, while future studies conducting onfarm conditions may pronounce its impact on growth performance. Olive leaf can be used in diets of broilers and further studies on-farm conditions may justify its impact on growth performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities of beeswax alcohol (BWA) are well reported in animal and human clinical studies, with a significant decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) in the blood, reduced liver steatosis, and decreased insulin. However, there has been insufficient information to explain BWAs in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity owing to its limited solubility in an aqueous buffer system. Herein, three distinct reconstituted high-density lipoproteins (rHDL) were prepared with palmitoyloleoyl phosphatidylcholine (POPC), cholesterol, apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), and BWA at molar ratios of 95:5:1:0 (rHDL-0), 95:5:1:0.5 (rHDL-0.5), and 95:5:1:1 (rHDL-1) and examined for antioxidant and anti-glycation effects. A rHDL containing BWA, precisely rHDL-1, displayed a remarkable anti-glycation effect against fructose (final 250 mM), induced glycation of HDL, and prevented proteolytic degradation of apoA-I. Also, BWA incorporated rHDL-0.5, and rHDL-1 displayed substantial antioxidant activity by inhibiting cupric ion-mediated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation. In contrast to rHDL-0, a 20 and 22% enhancement in ferric ion reduction ability (FRA) and paraoxonase (PON) activity was observed in HDL treated with rHDL-1, signifying the effect of BWA on the antioxidant activity enhancement of HDL. rHDL-1 efficiently inhibits Nε-carboxylmethyllysine (CML)-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and apoptosis in zebrafish embryos, consequently improving embryo survivability and developmental deformities impaired by the CML. The dermal application of rHDL-1 to the CML-impaired cutaneous wound of the adult zebrafish inhibited ROS production and displayed potent wound-healing activity. Conclusively, incorporating BWA in rHDL significantly enhanced the anti-glycation and antioxidant activities in rHDL via more stabilization of apoA-I with a larger particle size. The rHDL containing BWA facilitated the inherent antioxidant ability of HDL to suppress the CML-induced toxicities in zebrafish embryos and ameliorate CML-aggravated chronic wounds in adult zebrafish.

New more effective lipid-lowering therapies have made it important to accurately determine Low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) at both high and low levels. LDL-C was measured by the β-quantification reference method (BQ) (N = 40,346) and compared to Friedewald (F-LDL-C), Martin (M-LDL-C), extended Martin (eM-LDL-C) and Sampson (S-LDL-C) equations by regression analysis, error-grid analysis, and concordance with the BQ method for classification into different LDL-C treatment intervals. For triglycerides (TG) < 175 mg/dL, the four LDL-C equations yielded similarly accurate results, but for TG between 175 and 800 mg/dL, the S-LDL-C equation when compared to the BQ method had a lower mean absolute difference (mg/dL) (MAD = 10.66) than F-LDL-C (MAD = 13.09), M-LDL-C (MAD = 13.16) or eM-LDL-C (MAD = 12.70) equations. By error-grid analysis, the S-LDL-C equation for TG > 400 mg/dL not only had the least analytical errors but also the lowest frequency of clinically relevant errors at the low (<70 mg/dL) and high (>190 mg/dL) LDL-C cut-points (S-LDL-C: 13.5%, F-LDL-C: 23.0%, M-LDL-C: 20.5%) and eM-LDL-C: 20.0%) equations. The S-LDL-C equation also had the best overall concordance to the BQ reference method for classifying patients into different LDL-C treatment intervals. The S-LDL-C equation is both more analytically accurate than alternative equations and results in less clinically relevant errors at high and low LDL-C levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperlipidemia is the primary cause of heart disorders and has been manifested as the condition with remarkable higher levels of very-low-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, intermediate-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and cholesterol in blood circulation. Genetic causes or systemic metabolic illnesses like diabetes mellitus, increased alcohol consumption, hypothyroidism, and primary biliary cirrhosis are several reasons behind development of hyperlipidemia. Higher levels of lipids and lipoproteins in plasma are responsible for various health disorders in human body like occlusion of blood vessels, acute pancreatitis, and reduced artery lumen elasticity. Both primary and secondary prophylaxis of heart disease can be achieved through combination of pharmacologic therapy with therapeutic lifestyle adjustments. Statins which belongs to HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are preferred for primary prevention of hyperlipidemia particularly for individuals at higher risk of development of heart disease. This review discusses the recent advancements and outcomes of nanoparticle drug carriers for statins in the therapy of hyperlipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Androgenic and anabolic action of testosterone mediated through androgen receptor, which have been documented to have significant biological actions in bone, muscle, prostate, adipose tissue and the reproductive, cardiovascular, immune, neural and haemopoietic systems. Aim: Evaluate the action of testosterone on liver histology and lipid profile (cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, HDL and VLDL). Materials and Methods: Adult female wistar rat (no. 12) and weight (180-200 g) was housed in stain steel cages. Six rats were divided into two groups control group given propylene glycol as vehicle while treated group give testosterone propionate subcutaneous with 100mg/kg dose dissolve in propylene glycol for 30 days. Live histology examination and lipid profile assessment were conducted to compare the differences and the effect of the testosterone. Results: There was no significant differences in all parameters of cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein and very low-density lipoprotein, while the histology of treated group showed dilatations of the hepatic sinusoids which led to increase pressure of the hepatic biliary system, with fatty changes and dysplasia of hepatocytes. Conclusion: Testosterone plays an important role in aging by increasing hepatic glycogen stores and alteration of hepatic tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (chol) subfractions are risk biomarkers for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). A reference analysis, ultracentrifugation (UC), is laborious and may be replaced with a rapid prediction using proton NMR spectra of human blood plasma. However, the quality and uniqueness of these prediction models of biologically related subfractions remains unknown. This study, using two independent cohorts (n = 277), investigates the inter-correlations between LDL cholesterol in the main fraction and five subfractions, as well as the independence of their NMR-based prediction models. The results reveal that the prediction models utilize both shared and unique spectral information from the NMR spectra to determine concentrations of LDL subfractions. Analysis of variance contributions for prediction and causality assessments demonstrate that the NMR spectra contain unique predictive information for the LDL1chol, LDL2chol, and LDL5chol subfractions. In contrast, the spectral signatures for LDL3chol and LDL4chol are either insufficient or confounded. Our findings indicate that these five CVD biomarkers represent two independent clusters, reflecting their biosynthetic pathways, and confirm the presence of causal relationships between certain LDL chol subfractions. This highlights the importance of employing caution when interpreting the concentrations of specific LDL subfractions as standalone biomarkers for CVD risk., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no competing interest., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

SCARF1 (scavenger receptor class F member 1, SREC-1 or SR-F1) is a type I transmembrane protein that recognizes multiple endogenous and exogenous ligands such as modified low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) and is important for maintaining homeostasis and immunity. But the structural information and the mechanisms of ligand recognition of SCARF1 are largely unavailable. Here, we solve the crystal structures of the N-terminal fragments of human SCARF1, which show that SCARF1 forms homodimers and its epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domains adopt a long-curved conformation. Then, we examine the interactions of SCARF1 with lipoproteins and are able to identify a region on SCARF1 for recognizing modified LDLs. The mutagenesis data show that the positively charged residues in the region are crucial for the interaction of SCARF1 with modified LDLs, which is confirmed by making chimeric molecules of SCARF1 and SCARF2. In addition, teichoic acids, a cell wall polymer expressed on the surface of gram-positive bacteria, are able to inhibit the interactions of modified LDLs with SCARF1, suggesting the ligand binding sites of SCARF1 might be shared for some of its scavenging targets. Overall, these results provide mechanistic insights into SCARF1 and its interactions with the ligands, which are important for understanding its physiological roles in homeostasis and the related diseases., Competing Interests: YW, FX, GL, CC, BY, ZZ, DK, FC, YL, ZF, LC, YY, YG, YH No competing interests declared, (© 2024, Wang, Xu, Li et al.)

Background and Aims: The criteria for the use of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) more restrictive than those approved were established in Catalonia by the Health System (CatSalut) to improve their efficiency, with different LDL-C values from which to start treatment according to risk factors. The aim of the study is to analyse adherence to these criteria and results., Methods: A retrospective study of patients treated with PCSK9i at Vall d'Hebron University Hospital between 2016 and 2021 was performed using data from the Registry of Patients and Treatments and medical records. The degree of agreement with the CatSalut criteria, LDL-C-responders (decrease ≥30%), cardiovascular events and discontinuations were analysed., Results: A total of 193 patients treated with PCSK9i were followed for a median of 27 months (IQR 23). The median age was 61 (IQR 15); 62.7% were men. Seventy percent of the patients had non-familial hypercholesterolemia. Treatment was for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease in 82.4% of cases. The median LDL-C decreased from 139 (IQR 52) to 59 (IQR 45) mg/dL. The percentage of LDL-C reduction was 61.0% (IQR 30). In 72.5% of patients, all CatSalut criteria for starting treatment were met. The rate of responders was 85.4%. During follow-up, 19 patients (9.8%) had a cardiovascular event, and 15 (7.7%) discontinued treatment, in two cases due to toxicity., Conclusion: PCSK9i were used according to CatSalut criteria in three out of four cases. In this high-risk population, incidence of cardiovascular events was similar to that in clinical trials., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)