Effects of dietary factors on lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A 2 (Lp-PLA 2)

Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A 2 (Lp-PLA 2) is an enzyme which binds to oxidized LDL and has a pro-inflammatory role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. The Lp-PLA 2 Studies Collaboration showed the relationship between Lp-PLA 2 levels and activity with coronary heart disease and ischemic stroke. Levels and activity of Lp-PLA 2 are reduced by statins. There have been limited studies focused on dietary factors and effects on LpPLA 2. A recent article from the Nurses' Health Study (HNS) and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (HPFS) has provided interesting insights. In this cross sectional study, a lower LpPLA 2 activity was found to be related to several dietary factors including higher percentage of energy consumed as protein instead of carbohydrate, mild to moderate intake of alcohol, higher mono-unsaturated fat intake instead of carbohydrate, and not being overweight. It is unknown whether changes in Lp-PLA 2 by diet alter cardiovascular risk.