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Plasma testosterone, high density lipoprotein cholesterol and other lipoprotein fractions.

High density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels are strongly related to risk of heart attack. Identification of determinants of high density lipoprotein cholesterol may provide important information concerning the cause of heart disease. The relation between one possible determinant, testosterone, and high density lipoprotein cholesterol and other lipoprotein fractions was evaluated in 247 middle-aged men. The results indicate that testosterone levels (both free and total) were positively correlated with high density lipoprotein cholesterol (r = +0.24, p less than 0.01) and negatively correlated with triglycerides and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol. The association between testosterone and high density lipoprotein cholesterol could not be explained by intake of alcohol, obesity, age, smoking or physical activity. Furthermore, the relation of testosterone to HDL cholesterol was independent of the relation of testosterone to very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol or triglycerides.

Age Factors↗

Interrelationship of triglycerides with lipoproteins and high-density lipoproteins.

Triglycerides are transported by the largest and most lipid-rich of the lipoprotein particles, namely, chylomicrons and very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). These particles are buoyant because of the high triglyceride content, which makes up approximately 90% by weight of the chylomicron and 70% by weight of the VLDL. The chylomicron transports exogenous or dietary fat and cholesterol, whereas VLDL transports endogenous triglyceride and cholesterol in lipoproteins synthesized and secreted by the liver. Both chylomicrons and VLDL are hydrolyzed at the capillary surface by the enzyme lipoprotein lipase. Lipoprotein lipase catalyzes the hydrolysis of triglyceride in the lipid core of these particles, producing smaller particles known as remnants. We currently believe the remnants are atherogenic and that this is one reason why hypertriglyceridemia may predispose to coronary artery disease. Chylomicron remnants are recognized and removed by hepatic receptors that contain apolipoprotein (apo) E. The rate of clearance of remnant particles depends on which subfraction of apo E is present. Particles containing apo EII are removed more slowly than those with apo EIII and EIV. The dietary cholesterol from the chylomicron remnant particles is thought to down-regulate the hepatic low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors. VLDL remnants, also called intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL), contain apo E and may be removed by the liver through the LDL or B/E receptor. The decrease in activity of these receptors results in apparent oversynthesis of LDL, the end-product of VLDL and IDL metabolism. LDL is the major cholesterol carrier, followed by high-density lipoprotein (HDL).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Humans↗

Apolipoprotein A-I and apolipoprotein B containing lipoprotein particles in coronary patients treated with extracorporal low density lipoprotein precipitation (HELP).

Evidence for chemical and biological heterogeneity of human plasma lipoprotein density classes has been steadily accumulating over the last 15 years. Furthermore, several recent reports have indicated potential clinical significance of certain lipoprotein subspecies as either atherogenic or antiatherogenic. It is generally accepted that lipid lowering treatments can retard or even reverse development of atherosclerotic lesions. However, very little is known about effects of various lipid lowering treatments on specific lipoprotein particles. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of heparin induced extracorporal low density lipoprotein precipitation (HELP) on various subspecies of plasma lipoprotein particles defined primarily by their apolipoprotein composition. Using particle specific enzyme immunoassays, the immediate changes in lipoprotein particle profiles were analyzed after a single HELP treatment in 12 patients with angiographically documented coronary artery disease. In a separate group of 6 patients, particles were repeatedly measured over a period of 96 h following a HELP treatment. Single HELP treatment caused an immediate and highly significant decrease (67%) in the concentration of simple lipoprotein particles containing apolipoprotein B (apo B) as a sole apolipoprotein (LP-B). Various subspecies of complex particles containing apo B and other apolipoproteins (Lp-B-complex) were also decreased although to a lesser degree (44-53%). HELP treatment caused an insignificant, 3% decrease of lipoprotein particles containing apo A-I but no apo A-II (Lp-A-I) and a 6% decrease in the concentration of particles containing both apo A-I and apo A-II (Lp-A-I:A-II). During the 96-h period following HELP treatment various apo B containing particles recovered at different rates in different patients.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Apolipoprotein A-I↗

Expression in mouse embryos and in adult mouse brain of three members of the amyloid precursor protein family, of the alpha-2-macroglobulin receptor/low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein and of its ligands apolipoprotein E, lipoprotein lipase, alpha-2-macroglobulin and the 40,000 molecular weight receptor-associated protein.

We have analysed by northern blotting and by in situ hybridization the expression patterns of eight different genes during the second half of mouse embryonic development and in adult mouse brain: we compared the messenger RNA levels of amyloid precursor protein and of the two amyloid precursor protein-like proteins 1 and 2 and we have analysed expression of apolipoprotein E and of its main receptor in brain, the alpha-2-macroglobulin/low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein and three other ligands: the proteinase inhibitor alpha-2-macroglobulin, the modifying enzyme lipoprotein lipase and the 44,000 molecular weight heparin binding protein, a ligand of unknown function. During embryogenesis the temporal expression pattern differs considerably for the three members of the amyloid precursor proteins. Total embryo messenger RNA levels of amyloid precursor protein and amyloid precursor protein-like protein 2 increased progressively, while amyloid precursor protein-like protein 1 messenger RNA showed a burst of synthesis between days 10 and 13 post-coitum. Significantly, expression of the alpha-2-macroglobulin/low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein and of its associated protein, the 44,000 molecular weight heparin binding protein, exhibited their most important increase very similar to that of amyloid precursor protein-like protein 1, between days 10 and 13 post-coitum. Apolipoprotein E, lipoprotein lipase and alpha-2-macroglobulin messenger RNA levels in total embryos increased progressively, beginning most pronounced at days 13, 15 and 17, respectively. In mouse embryos, in situ hybridization established amyloid precursor protein, amyloid precursor protein-like protein 2 and alpha-2-macroglobulin/low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein messenger RNA to be expressed in most organs, with the notable exception of the liver, while expression of the other studied proteins was much more restricted. Among adult mouse tissues, the genes investigated were expressed very prominently in brain, except for lipoprotein lipase and for the complete absence of alpha-2-macroglobulin messenger RNA. In adult mouse brain, the cortex and hippocampus exhibited strong signals for most genes analysed. Exceptions are lipoprotein lipase and apolipoprotein E messenger RNAs, and the absent alpha-2-macroglobulin messenger RNA. Several interesting features, similarities as well as differences, between brain tissue sections hybridized with probes for amyloid precursor protein, amyloid precursor protein-like proteins 1 and 2 and between alpha-2-macroglobulin/low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein and heparin binding protein-44 were observed and are described. The results are further discussed in view of the known or anticipated physiological functions of the proteins examined and of their possible role in the etiology of Alzheimer's disease.

Amyloid beta-Protein Precursor↗

Effect of fluvastatin on intermediate density lipoprotein (remnants) and other lipoprotein levels in hypercholesterolemia.

The accelerated atherosclerosis in diseases associated with elevated remnant lipoprotein levels has directed interest toward the response of this lipoprotein species to lipid-lowering treatment. The effect of fluvastatin--a synthetic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor--was compared with that of placebo on parameters of remnant metabolism in 57 patients with moderate hypercholesterolemia, but not heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, type III hyperlipidemia, or endogenous hypertriglyceridemia. Fluvastatin therapy resulted in decreases versus baseline in plasma total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and LDL apolipoprotein (apo) B levels of 18%, 20%, and 18%, respectively (p < 0.01). Plasma parameters related to remnant metabolism were also significantly decreased: intermediate density lipoprotein by 43% and apo E by 22% (p < 0.01). The percent decrease in plasma intermediate density lipoprotein cholesterol level was twice that of LDL-C and 50% greater than the decrease seen in very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), which was decreased by 28%. Total triglycerides were reduced by 11% and VLDL apo B by 24%, whereas high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) rose significantly by 8%, HDL2-C by 24%, and HDL3-C by 3%. There were no increases in apo A-I levels compared with placebo nor any significant change in plasma lipoprotein(a) levels. The composition of LDL and VLDL particles did not appear to be altered by therapy, as assessed by the LDL-C:LDL-B, VLDL-C:VLDL-B, or triglyceride:VLDL-B ratios.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Adult↗

Effect of simvastatin on plasma lipid and lipoprotein concentrations and low-density lipoprotein metabolism in the nephrotic syndrome.

1. The effect of inhibiting the rate-limiting enzyme (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase, EC 1.1.1.88) in cholesterol synthesis on plasma lipid and lipoprotein concentrations was investigated in 16 patients with primary glomerular disease, heavy proteinuria, well-preserved renal function and hypercholesterolaemia. 2. Detailed studies of low-density lipoprotein metabolism were performed on eight patients before and after 12 weeks of simvastatin therapy. Radioiodinated tracers were used to quantify the fractional catabolic rate of low-density lipoprotein by apolipoprotein B/E receptors and alternative pathways. 3. Simvastatin produced consistent reductions in total plasma cholesterol concentration (median 36.9%), plasma low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentration (43.6%) and apolipoprotein B pool size (29.9%). 4. In contrast, the changes in kinetic parameters of low-density lipoprotein metabolism showed no clear pattern. Although an increase in the receptor-mediated catabolism of low-density lipoprotein was demonstrated in five patients, no change or a slight decrease was seen in three patients. Production rates were not significantly altered, although there was a slight decrease in the median value (from 12.4 to 9.7 mg day-1 kg-1). Plasma lathosterol concentration was reduced in all eight patients (range 34-71%), indirectly confirming significant inhibition of cholesterol synthesis. 5. These results suggest that, as in patients with primary moderate hyperlipidaemia, the significant cholesterol-lowering effect of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors in the nephrotic syndrome is accompanied by variable changes in lipoprotein metabolism. The reasons for this heterogeneous response are unclear. This reflects our limited understanding of the metabolic basis of nephrotic hyperlipidaemia and the relationship between hepatic sterol synthesis and plasma lipoprotein kinetics.

Adult↗

Accelerated clearance of low-density and high-density lipoproteins and retarded clearance of E apoprotein-containing lipoproteins from the plasma of rats after modification of lysine residues.

Selective chemical modification of lysine residues of lipoproteins by acetoacetylation dramatically altered the metabolism of the lipoproteins without significantly altering other physical or chemical properties. Modification of 30-60% of the total lysine residues of iodinated rat or human low-density lipoproteins ((125)I-LDL) resulted in a rapid removal of these acetoacetylated lipoproteins from the plasma of rats. Within minutes after intravenous injection into intact rats, greater than 80% of the total injected dose disappeared from the plasma. The rapidly cleared acetoacetylated LDL appeared in the liver, and within 6-30 min as much as 50-80% of the total injected dose of modified LDL could be accounted for in the liver. Furthermore, it was possible to demonstrate in the isolated perfused rat liver that the Kupffer cells were responsible for the lipoprotein uptake. Human high-density lipoproteins (HDL(3)) were also rapidly removed from the plasma after acetoacetylation. In striking contrast, acetoacetylation (30-60%) of two E apoprotein-containing lipoproteins (rat HDL(1) and dog HDL(c)) retarded their removal from the plasma. The accelerated removal of modified LDL and HDL(3), in contrast to the retarded removal of modified HDL(1) and HDL(c), suggests that the recognition and removal process is specific for a property acquired by only certain lipoproteins after acetoacetylation. Moreover, these results suggest that lysine residues of the E apoprotein may play a functional role in the recognition process for the normal clearance of HDL(1) and HDL(c), a process that is interfered with after acetoacetylation.

Acetylation↗

Overexpression of apolipoprotein E in transgenic mice: marked reduction in plasma lipoproteins except high density lipoprotein and resistance against diet-induced hypercholesterolemia.

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) has a high affinity to cell-surface low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor. To determine the role of apoE in plasma lipoprotein metabolism, transgenic mouse lines with integrated rat apoE gene under the control of the metallothionein promoter were established. We found that a high expressor line produced rat apoE mainly in the liver, and the gene product was almost entirely associated with plasma lipoproteins. The plasma level of rat apoE in homozygotes for the transgene was 17.4 mg/dl after zinc induction (vs. 4.56 mg/dl of mouse apoE in controls). In this group, plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels were 43% and 68% reduced as compared with controls, respectively. Heterozygotes showed decreases in both lipids to a lesser extent. Gel filtration chromatography showed that lipid reduction was mainly due to decreased very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) and LDL. Especially in zinc-treated homozygotes, VLDL had almost disappeared, and a remarkable decrease in LDL and a slight decrease in high density lipoprotein were also observed. Consistently, the plasma level of apoB, a structural protein of VLDL and LDL, was 78% lower than that of controls, indicating a marked reduction in lipoproteins containing apoB. Furthermore, the transgenic mice, in contrast to controls, did not develop hypercholesterolemia when fed a high cholesterol diet. These results demonstrated that overexpression of apoE reduces plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels and prevents diet-induced hypercholesterolemia. From dramatic and dose-related decreases in plasma lipoproteins in transgenic mice, we conclude that apoE plays a key role in plasma lipoprotein metabolism.

Animals↗

Lipoprotein lipase association with lipoproteins involves protein-protein interaction with apolipoprotein B.

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) hydrolyzes chylomicron and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) triglycerides and potentiates the cellular uptake of lipoproteins. These LPL-lipoprotein associations could involve only protein-lipid interaction, or they could be modulated by apolipoproteins (apo). ApoB is the major protein component of chylomicrons, VLDL, and low density lipoprotein (LDL). ApoB100, a large glycoprotein with a molecular mass of 550 kDa, is composed of several functional domains. A carboxyl-terminal region of the protein is the ligand for the LDL receptor. There are several hydrophobic domains that are believed to be important in lipid binding. The relatively hydrophilic amino-terminal region of apoB, however, has no known function. Using solid phase assays we quantified LPL-lipoprotein complex formation. On a molar basis, severalfold greater amounts of LPL bound to LDL and VLDL than to high density lipoprotein at all the concentrations of LPL tested (0.9-55 nM). To assess the roles of LDL protein versus lipid, we performed competition and ligand blotting experiments. LDL and an amino-terminal fragment of apoB competed better for 125I-LPL binding to LDL than did lipid emulsion particles. Delipidation of LDL-coated plates did not alter LPL binding. On ligand blots, LPL bound to amino-terminal fragments of apoB generated by thrombin digestion but not to apoA1, apoE, or carboxyl-terminal fragments of apoB. Further evidence for LPL interaction with the amino-terminal region of apoB was obtained using anti-apoB monoclonal antibodies. Antibodies directed against the amino-terminal regions of apoB blocked LPL interaction with LDL, whereas those against the carboxyl-terminal region of apoB did not inhibit LPL interaction with LDL. Thus, we conclude that a specific interaction between LPL and the amino-terminal region of apoB may facilitate LPL association with circulating lipoproteins.

Antibodies, Monoclonal↗

Chinese hamster ovary cells expressing a cell surface-anchored form of hepatic lipase. Characterization of low density lipoprotein and chylomicron remnant uptake and selective uptake of high density lipoprotein-cholesteryl ester.

The enzyme hepatic lipase may play several roles in lipoprotein metabolism. Recent investigation has suggested a role for the enzyme in lipoprotein and/or lipoprotein lipid uptake. To study this, a simple isolated system that mimics the in vivo system would be desirable. The enzyme is secreted by the hepatic parenchymal cell but exists, and presumably exerts its effects, while bound to capillary endothelial cells in the liver, adrenal gland, and the ovary. We constructed a cDNA that encodes the expression of a chimeric protein composed of rat hepatic lipase and the signal sequence for the addition of the glycophosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor from human decay-accelerating factor. When transfected into Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells this gave rise to a cell population that had immunoreactive hepatic lipase on the cell surface. Cloning of the transfected cells produced several cell lines that expressed the chimeric protein bound to the cell surface by a GPI anchor. This was documented by demonstrating incorporation of [3H]ethanolamine into anti-hepatic lipase immunoprecipitable material; in addition, hepatic lipase was released from the cells by phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C but not by heparin. Phosphatidylinositol-phospholipase C treatment of cells expressing the anchored lipase released material that comigrated with hepatic lipase on SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and was immunoreactive with antibody to the cross-reacting determinant of GPI anchors. Cell lysates containing the anchored protein contained salt-resistant lipase activity, a known feature of the secreted hepatic lipase; thus it appears that these cells have a surface-anchored hepatic lipase molecule. Although it was not possible to demonstrate lipolysis by the enzyme while it was on the cell surface for technical reasons, the protein produced by these cells was active when studied in cell membranes. The ability of the cells to take up lipoproteins was studied. The cells demonstrated an increased affinity for low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor mediated uptake of LDL. They did not, however, demonstrate any enhanced binding or removal of chylomicron remnants. With respect to LDL and remnants, the cells expressing anchored lipase behaved similarly to CHO cell that expressed secreted hepatic lipase. The cells expressing anchored hepatic lipase had a marked increase in the uptake of high density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein cholesteryl ester when compared to that seen with CHO cells secreting hepatic lipase. This increase occurred primarily via the selective pathway, and was not reduced by addition of anti-LDL receptor or anti-hepatic lipase antibodies or the receptor-associated protein. Together the results suggest that hepatic lipase, when bound to the cell surface by a GPI anchor, plays a role in enhancing lipoprotein uptake. For LDL this may involve the provision of a second foot for particle binding, thus enhancing affinity for the LDL receptor. For chylomicron remnants an additional molecule or molecules are necessary to mediate this effect. For HDL, the enzyme facilitates uptake of cholesteryl ester primarily by the selective pathway.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Overexpression of hepatic lipase in transgenic mice decreases apolipoprotein B-containing and high density lipoproteins. Evidence that hepatic lipase acts as a ligand for lipoprotein uptake.

To determine the mechanisms by which human hepatic lipase (HL) contributes to the metabolism of apolipoprotein (apo) B-containing lipoproteins and high density lipoproteins (HDL) in vivo, we developed and characterized HL transgenic mice. HL was localized by immunohistochemistry to the liver and to the adrenal cortex. In hemizygous (hHLTg+/0) and homozygous (hHLTg+/+) mice, postheparin plasma HL activity increased by 25- and 50-fold and plasma cholesterol levels decreased by 80% and 85%, respectively. In mice fed a high fat, high cholesterol diet to increase endogenous apoB-containing lipoproteins, plasma cholesterol decreased 33% (hHLTg+/0) and 75% (hHLTg+/+). Both apoB-containing remnant lipoproteins and HDL were reduced. To extend this observation, the HL transgene was expressed in human apoB transgenic (huBTg) and apoE-deficient (apoE-/-) mice, both of which have high plasma levels of apoB-containing lipoproteins. (Note that the huBTg mice that were used in these studies were all hemizygous for the human apoB gene.) In both the huBTg,hHLTg+/0 mice and the apoE-/-,hHLTg+/0 mice, plasma cholesterol decreased by 50%. This decrease was reflected in both the apoB-containing and the HDL fractions. To determine if HL catalytic activity is required for these decreases, we expressed catalytically inactive HL (HL-CAT) in apoE-/- mice. The postheparin plasma HL activities were similar in the apoE-/- and the apoE-/-,HL-CAT+/0 mice, reflecting the activity of the endogenous mouse HL and confirming that the HL-CAT was catalytically inactive. However, the postheparin plasma HL activity was 20-fold higher in the apoE-/-,hHLTg+/0 mice, indicating expression of the active human HL. Immunoblotting demonstrated high levels of human HL in postheparin plasma of both apoE-/-,hHLTg+/0 and apoE-/-,HL-CAT+/0 mice. Plasma cholesterol and apoB-containing lipoprotein levels were approximately 60% lower in apoE-/-,HL-CAT+/0 mice than in apoE-/- mice. However, the HDL were only minimally reduced. Thus, the catalytic activity of HL is critical for its effects on HDL but not for its effects on apoB-containing lipoproteins. These results provide evidence that HL can act as a ligand to remove apoB-containing lipoproteins from plasma.

Animals↗

In vitro remodelling of plasma lipoproteins in whole plasma by lipoprotein lipase in primary and secondary hypertriglyceridaemia.

In patients with familial lipoprotein lipase deficiency (FLPL-d) and glycogen storage disease type I (GSD-I), hypertriglyceridaemia (1445 +/- 247 and 1082 +/- 312 mg dl-1, n = 5 per group) was associated primarily with reduced extrahepatic lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity (0.33 +/- 0.33 and 1.69 +/- 0.38 mumol FFA ml-1 h-1) when compared with controls (4.83 +/- 0.90). Hypercholesterolaemia was characterized by elevated LDL cholesterol (191 +/- 30 and 344 +/- 34 vs. 115 +/- 5 mg dl-1 in controls P less than 0.01) and low HDL cholesterol (12 +/- 2 and 22 +/- 2 vs. 56 +/- 3 in controls, P less than 0.001). In order to ascertain the role of LPL in the interconversion and remodelling of lipoproteins in these disorders, we analysed lipid and lipoprotein profiles before and following in vitro incubation of patient plasma with purified milk LPL (EC 3.1.1.34) for 6 h at 37 degrees C. The efficiency of exogenous LPL in vitro was demonstrated by the extent of hydrolysis of chylomicrons and of VLDL-TG in both groups. Concomitant with the disappearance of TG-rich lipoprotein particles, a consistent per cent increment of IDL (99.2 +/- 30.8 and 43.9 +/- 70.5), LDL (152.8 +/- 36.2 and 137.0 +/- 36.1) and of HDL2 (144.8 +/- 29.4 and 99.8 +/- 18.7) was observed in both groups of patients. The enhancement of the latter fractions contrasted with the decline of HDL3 mass concentration (25.4 +/- 7.7 and 51.4 +/- 5.8%), suggesting that a major shift of HDL3----HDL2 occurs following in vitro lipolysis by LDL. Simultaneous compositional and morphological changes of individual lipoprotein particles were noted, confirming the dynamic movement and exchange of neutral lipids and proteins. Specificity of LPL results was demonstrated by experiments in which incubation of the whole plasma at 37 degrees C without exogenous lipolytic enzyme did not cause any substantial changes. The present study, therefore, demonstrates a correction of the major lipoprotein abnormalities associated with FLPL-d and GSD-I by exogenous LPL. No substantial difference was noted between primary (FLPL-d) and secondary (GSD-I) hyperlipidaemias. These studies allow us to conclude that a simple in vitro system, utilizing an exogenous source of LPL and plasma from patients, may serve as a suitable model for the study of the metabolic relationships of lipoproteins. However, in view of the fact that the extent of lipolysis achieved in vitro did not differ between FLPL-d and GSD-I, it may not be able to separate primary from secondary hyperlipaemias.

Adolescent↗

Effects of conjugated equine estrogen and medroxyprogesterone acetate on lipoprotein(a) and other lipoproteins in japanese postmenopausal women with and without dyslipidemia.

BACKGROUND/AIM: The cardiovascular effects of postmenopausal hormone replacement are controversially discussed. We investigated the effects of 12 months of treatment with conjugated equine estrogen and medroxyprogesterone acetate on lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] and other lipoproteins in Japanese postmenopausal women (PMW) with and without dyslipidemia. METHODS: Forty-three normolipidemic and 17 dyslipidemic PMW [total cholesterol (TC) >/=220 mg/dl or triglyceride (TG) >/=150 mg/dl] received conjugated equine estrogen (0.625 mg) plus medroxyprogesterone acetate (2.5 mg) daily for 12 months, and the results were compared with those of 26 normolipidemic and 14 dyslipidemic subjects declining this treatment as controls. The fasting serum levels of Lp(a), TC, TG, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low- density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein (Apo) AI, Apo AII, Apo B, Apo CII, and Apo E were measured in each subject at baseline and 12 months after this treatment initiation. RESULTS: The treatment decreased Lp(a) similarly in normolipidemic and dyslipidemic PMW and decreased TC, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, Apo CII, and Apo E and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, Apo AI, and Apo AII in both groups. The therapy also significantly increased TG in normolipidemic but not dyslipidemic subjects. In controls, the levels of Lp(a) and other lipoproteins were unaltered. CONCLUSIONS: In PMW with or without dyslipidemia, improvement in Lp(a) and other lipoproteins may represent cardiovascular benefits of hormone replacement therapy. However, an elevation of the TG levels seen with the therapy warrants caution, especially in PMW without dyslipidemia.

Asian People↗

Intracellular trafficking of pigeon beta-very low density lipoprotein and low density lipoprotein at low and high concentrations in pigeon macrophages.

Foam cell formation occurs in vitro at lipoprotein concentrations above 50 microgram/ml in pigeon macrophages. Hypothetically, intracellular trafficking of lipoproteins at higher concentrations may differ from uptake of lipoproteins associated with low concentrations, revealing a separate atherogenic endocytic pathway. Macrophage intracellular trafficking of pigeon beta-very low density lipoprotein (beta-VLDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) at low concentrations (12 microgram/ml) near the saturation of high affinity binding sites and high lipoprotein concentrations (50-150 microgram/ml) used to induce foam cell formation were examined. Pigeon beta-VLDL and LDL, differentially labeled with colloidal gold, were added simultaneously to contrast trafficking of beta-VLDL, which causes in vitro foam cell formation, with LDL, which does not. The binding of lipoproteins to cell surface structures, distribution of lipoproteins in endocytic organelles, and the extent of colabeling in the endocytic organelles were determined by thin-section transmission electron microscopy. At low concentrations, the intracellular trafficking of pigeon LDL and beta-VLDL was identical. At high concentrations, LDL was removed more rapidly from the plasma membrane and reached lysosomes more quickly than beta-VLDL. No separate endocytic route was present at high concentrations of beta-VLDL; rather, an increased residence on the plasma membrane, association with nonmicrovillar portions of the plasma membrane, and slower trafficking in organelles of coated-pit endocytosis reflected a more atherogenic trafficking pattern.

Animals↗

Lipoprotein lipase release from BFC-1 beta adipocytes. Effects of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and lipolysis products.

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL), synthesized by adipocytes and myocytes, must be transported to the luminal endothelial cell surface where it then interacts with circulating lipoproteins. The first step in this extracellular LPL transport pathway is LPL release from the surface of LPL-synthesizing cells. Because hydrolysis of triglyceride (TG)-rich lipoproteins releases LPL from the apical surface of endothelial cells, we hypothesized that the same substances dissociate LPL from adipocytes. 125I-LPL was bound to the surface of brown adipocytes (BFC-1 beta). LPL binding to the adipocyte surface was greater than to endothelial cell surfaces. Using low concentrations of heparin, more LPL was released from endothelial cells than BFC-1 beta, suggesting that the affinity of LPL binding to the adipocytes was greater than LPL affinity for endothelial cells. Greater than 3-fold more LPL was released from the cell surface when very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) were added to culture medium containing 3% bovine serum albumin. LPL remaining on the cell surface decreased with VLDL addition. Endogenously produced LPL activity was also released from the cells by VLDL. Low and high density lipoproteins did not release 125I-LPL or LPL activity from the adipocytes. To assess whether lipolysis was necessary for LPL release, BFC-1 beta were incubated with TG-rich lipoproteins from a patient with apoCII deficiency. The apoCII-deficient lipoproteins did not release LPL unless an exogenous source of apoCII was added. Apolipoproteins E and Cs and high molar ratios of oleic acid:bovine serum albumin did not release surface-associated LPL. Lysolecithin (25 and 100 microM), but not lecithin, monoglycerides, or diglycerides, released adipocyte surface LPL. Because lysolecithin also released LPL during a 4 degrees C incubation, cellular metabolic functions are not required for LPL dissociation from the cells. Lysolecithin also inhibited LPL binding to endothelial cells; however, this effect was abrogated by addition of bovine serum albumin. We hypothesize that lipolysis products from TG-rich lipoproteins release adipocyte surface LPL, which can then be transported to the luminal endothelial cell surface.

Adipose Tissue, Brown↗

Lipoprotein separation and low density lipoprotein molecular weight determination using high performance gel-filtration chromatography.

Plasma lipoproteins were isolated at d less than 1.225 g/ml from nonhuman primates of three species, cynomolgus, rhesus, and African green (vervet) monkeys. Individual lipoprotein classes were separated by high performance gelfiltration chromatography and low density lipoprotein (LDL) molecular weight was determined. A comparison was made using column configurations including TSK 3000 SW, 4000 SW, and 5000 PW columns. Due to its relative simplicity, stability, and economy, a single 5000 PW column was selected for most of the work. The recovery of lipoprotein cholesterol from the column averaged 91 +/- 2.5%. A comparison of the immunologic, chemical, and electrophoretic properties of high density lipoproteins (HDL) and LDL isolated by this technique with those of HDL and LDL isolated by conventional agarose column chromatography indicated that lipoproteins isolated by high performance gel-filtration chromatography were intact and reasonably free of cross contamination. A standard preparation of 125I-labeled LDL was added to the d less than 1.225 g/ml lipoprotein fraction just prior to separation and a relative size index, r1, was determined. When r1 values for a large number of samples were compared with the log of the LDL molecular weight (determined by agarose column chromatography) a linear relationship was found with a correlation coefficient, r = 0.85. The regression equation for this relationship could be used to calculate LDL molecular weights from the r1 value. These values agreed with LDL molecular weight determined by flotation equilibrium analysis in the analytical ultracentrifuge. We conclude that high performance gel-filtration chromatography using the TSK 5000 PW column provides an analytical and preparative technique for simultaneous separation of individual lipoproteins and determination of LDL molecular weight.

Animals↗

[The great Scandinavian Medical Jahre Prize 1994. Role of lipoprotein lipase in lipoprotein metabolism].

Each day more than 150 g of triglycerides are transported from the intestine in chylomicrons and from the liver in VLDL. The triglycerides are hydrolyzed by lipoprotein lipase at the vascular endothelium in extrahepatic tissues. This releases fatty acids and monoglycerides which can move across aqueous barriers and cell membranes to reach metabolic sites in tissue cells. At the endothelial cell the enzyme is anchored to heparin sulfate proteoglycans. The enzyme is located in a position where it can freely interact with lipoproteins from the circulating blood. The hydrolysis is a rapid and efficient process. A chylomicron containing more than a million triglyceride molecules can be unloaded in less than 10 minutes. As a consequence of triglyceride hydrolysis the lipoproteins are reduced to remnant particles. Some of these are rapidly removed from plasma but some are remodeled into LDL and HDL, lipoproteins that are catabolized slowly and therefore dominate in plasma. The activity of LPL is regulated in a tissue-specific manner and this directs the destination of triglyceride transport. The enzyme binds fatty acids which provides a mechanism for product control of the reaction. When the tissue can no longer assimilate the fatty acids, the lipase reaction is stopped and the lipoprotein returns to the circulating blood. In addition to its catalytic action, lipoprotein lipase can also serve as a ligand for binding of lipoproteins to cell surfaces and to receptors. Hence, the lipase has a dual role in lipoprotein metabolism, mediating both unloading of triglycerides in extrahepatic tissues and particle catabolism in the liver.

Apolipoprotein C-II↗

Lipoprotein lipase in human plasma is mainly inactive and associated with cholesterol-rich lipoproteins.

This study was designed to further ascertain the presence in plasma of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) bound to circulating lipoproteins. Lipoprotein lipase mass and activity values in preheparin plasma from 20 volunteers were 69.8 +/- 6.6 ng.ml-1 and 1.54 +/- 0.15 mU.ml-1, respectively, and no significant correlation between mass and activity was observed. Fifteen min after heparin injection, LPL mass had increased to 536 +/- 60 ng.ml-1 and LPL activity to 261 +/- 34 mU.ml-1 and a highly significant correlation between the increments in mass and activity was observed. The released material had a specific activity of 0.57 +/- 0.03 mU.ng-1. The LPL mass in preheparin plasma eluted early from heparin-Sepharose, in the position expected for inactive LPL monomers. Western blot analysis showed that the eluted material had the size expected for the LPL subunit (55 kDa). The increment of mass and activity after heparin eluted later from heparin-Sepharose, in the position expected for active LPL dimers. It is concluded that preheparin plasma contains substantial amounts of inactive LPL protein, and that heparin releases mainly active LPL into circulation. On gel filtration LPL activity and mass in postheparin plasma eluted mainly in the positions of LDL and HDL. Electron microscopy of immunostained fractions showed reaction for LPL and apolipoprotein B, or apolipoprotein A-I, on the same particles. LPL mass in preheparin plasma eluted in a similar pattern, associated with LDL and HDL. In postprandial plasma substantial amounts of LPL protein eluted with the triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. When 125I-labeled bovine LPL was added to plasma or to ultracentrifugally isolated lipoproteins and then analyzed by gradient gel electrophoresis, the labeled lipase moved with the lipoproteins. The presence of substantial amounts of inactive LPL protein associated with lipoproteins in plasma may have important implications for the metabolism of the particles in view of recent reports on avid binding of LPL-lipoprotein complexes to cell surfaces and receptors.

Apolipoproteins↗