Antioxidant and inflammatory aspects of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A(2 )(Lp-PLA(2 )): a review

The association of cardiovascular events with Lp-PLA(2 )has been studied continuously today. The enzyme has been strongly associated with several cardiovascular risk markers and events. Its discovery was directly related to the hydrolysis of the platelet-activating factor and oxidized phospholipids, which are considered protective functions. However, the hydrolysis of bioactive lipids generates lysophospholipids, compounds that have a pro-inflammatory function. Therefore, the evaluation of the distribution of Lp-PLA(2 )in the lipid fractions emphasized the dual role of the enzyme in the inflammatory process, since the HDL-Lp-PLA(2 )enzyme contributes to the reduction of atherosclerosis, while LDL-Lp-PLA(2 )stimulates this process. Recently, it has been verified that diet components and drugs can influence the enzyme activity and concentration. Thus, the effects of these treatments on Lp-PLA(2 )may represent a new kind of prevention of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, the association of the enzyme with the traditional assessment of cardiovascular risk may help to predict more accurately these diseases.