The complex pro-atherosclerotic role of lipoprotein(a): a multiplicity of cellular targets

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Elevated plasma lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a causal and independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease; therefore, understanding the fundamental mechanisms underlying Lp(a)-mediated pathogenesis is of significant clinical importance. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the precise cellular targets of Lp(a) in atherogenesis, uncovering potential therapeutic avenues worth exploring. RECENT FINDINGS: Genetic evidence reveals that Lp(a) is six-fold more atherogenic per particle than LDL, and clinical imaging studies show increased atherosclerotic plaque burden and severity in patients with elevated Lp(a). A novel study using human monocytes uncovered diacylglycerols and lysophosphatidic acid as lipid species that contribute to the pro-inflammatory impacts of Lp(a), independent of the known pro-inflammatory oxidized phospholipids. The identification of a novel cell-surface receptor on endothelial cells involved in Lp(a) uptake offers another exploratory direction in vascular cells involved in atherosclerosis. Several studies have also pointed to accelerated coagulation as a potential target of Lp(a), involving Lp(a)-mediated impacts on platelet aggregation and monocyte tissue factor expression. SUMMARY: An understanding of these cell-specific targets of Lp(a) in atherogenesis will aid the Lp(a) field in identifying novel therapeutic targets for patients with elevated Lp(a), for whom few available therapeutic strategies currently exist.