Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2: A new therapeutic target

Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A(2) is in enzyme produced by inflammatory cells, which binds to apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins and degrades oxidatively modified phospholipids in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol pail-iciest leading to formation of proinflammatory and cytotoxic products. Experimental studies suggest a role for lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A(2) in the formation of advanced rupture-prone artherosclerotic lesions, and epidemiological investigations have linked it to increased cardiovascular risk. Ongoing trials are evaluating the role of novel pharmacological inhibitors of this enzyme, such its darapladib, in the management or high-risk coronary artery disease patients.