LDL fatty acids composition as a risk biomarker of cardiovascular disease

Abstract

Objective: Fatty acid composition of Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particle is an effective factor in LDL oxidation and atherosclerotic plaques formation. This study evaluates the relationship between LDL fatty acid composition and coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: 42 men with coronary artery disease (CAD-group) and 40 men without coronary artery disease (non-CAD-group) were selected. LDL fatty acid composition of blood samples was measured by gas chromatography. Results: Ox-LDL was significantly high in CAD-group. Poly unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and PUFA/MUFA (Mono unsaturated fatty acids), linoleic acid and arachidonic acid were significantly higher in CAD-group than in non-CAD-group. In CAD-group, a reverse correlation was observed between oleic acid concentrations and ox-LDL levels and a direct correlation was seen between arachidonic acid concentrations and ox-LDL levels. Conclusion: Composition of LDL is related to atherosclerosis and CAD. High levels of arachidonic and linoleic acids could increase LDL oxidation and atherosclerotic plaques formation. In addition, LDL arachidonic acid levels could be a better predictor of CAD.

Keywords

• Fatty acids
• Saturated fatty acids
• Mono unsaturated fatty acids
• Poly unsaturated fatty acids
• LDL
• ox-LDL