Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein and its Atherogenic Potential

Abstract

The emergence of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL) is crucial for the progression of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) linked to atherosclerosis. OxLDL stimulates endothelial activation and smooth muscle proliferation and has an atherosclerotic promoting effect. The measurement of OxLDL correlates with the presence of CVD and may be a prognostic marker for future health outcomes. Circulating OxLDLs can be used as biomarkers since their levels rise in patients with advanced atherosclerosis. Immunological methods have proven to be very useful methodologies. Anti-OxLDL monoclonal antibodies have been developed that bind strongly to OxLDL and are used in ELISA for OxLDL measurements. Routine inclusion of OxLDL estimation in an at-risk population can help the clinicians understand the disease initiation and progression and improve early intervention and management.