Effects of dietary factors on lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A(2) (Lp-PLA (2)).

Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A(2) (Lp-PLA(2)) is an enzyme which binds to oxidized LDL and has a pro-inflammatory role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. The Lp-PLA(2) Studies Collaboration showed the relationship between Lp-PLA(2) levels and activity with coronary heart disease and ischemic stroke. Levels and activity of Lp-PLA(2) are reduced by statins. There have been limited studies focused on dietary factors and effects on LpPLA(2). A recent article from the Nurses' Health Study (HNS) and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (HPFS) has provided interesting insights. In this cross sectional study, a lower LpPLA(2) activity was found to be related to several dietary factors including higher percentage of energy consumed as protein instead of carbohydrate, mild to moderate intake of alcohol, higher mono-unsaturated fat intake instead of carbohydrate, and not being overweight. It is unknown whether changes in Lp-PLA(2) by diet alter cardiovascular risk.