[Myeloperoxidase of neutrophils and its possible role in lipid peroxidation processes in arteriosclerosis].

Activity of blood plasma myeloperoxidase (MPO) of neutrophil leucocytes and acetyl hydroperoxides was studied in families of atherosclerosis patients. The neutrophil MPO activity was decreased and the blood plasma content of acetyl hydroperoxides was increased in subjects with hereditary predisposition to atherosclerosis. The role of MPO and its possible pathogenetic action as a generator of the active forms of oxygen in atherosclerosis and its complications has been discussed.