Title:Can We Change the Functionality of HDL Cholesterol with Nonpharmacological and Pharmacological Agents?
Volume: 21
Issue: 25
Author(s): S. Dragan, C. Serban and M. Banach
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Dysfunctional HDL, HDL functionality, reverse cholesterol transport.
Abstract: Many pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies have been used to increase high-density lipoprotein-
cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, but the results obtained have not been consistently associated with effective cardiovascular
risk reduction. Therefore, research is now focused to improve HDL functionality, independent of HDL-C levels. The
quality of HDL particles can vary considerably due to its heterogeneity caused by various lipids, proteins, vitamins, hormones
and small RNAs that are associated with HDL. These components could act as potential HDL-related biomarkers,
which may guide effective therapeutic interventions. Evaluation of HDL functionality seems to be more relevant, given
the current evidence of the pleiotropic potentially atheroprotective functions of HDL. It is relevant to understand which
HDL-related properties involved in its cardioprotective functions, in order to develop pharmacological and nonpharmacological
therapies to improve HDL functionality.