Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 concentrations in plasma are associated with the extent of coronary artery disease and correlate to adipose tissue levels of marine n-3 fatty acids.
Department of Cardiology, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Aalborg Hospital, Arhus University Hospitals, Sdr. Skovvej 15, 9100 Aalborg, Denmark. ebs@dadlnet.dk
Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A(2) (Lp-PLA(2)) is an emerging risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In the present study, plasma levels of Lp-PLA(2) were measured in patients (n=301) admitted to elective coronary angiography because of suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). In a multiple linear regression analysis, the degree of CAD (0-, 1-, 2- or 3-vessel disease) and plasma LDL cholesterol significantly correlated to Lp-PLA(2) levels. Also the content of the marine n-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in adipose tissue, a measure of long-term intake of seafood independently and inversely (r=-0.18, p