A Novel Index of Assessing Atherosclerosis Regression and Plaque Stabilization

Background

Oxidized phospholipids (OxPL) are present in vessel walls and have been shown to be pro-inflammatory and pro-atherogenic. When cholesterol is lowered by drugs or diet, the plasma levels of the OxPL increase, suggesting a movement or clearance of the phospholipids from the vessel wall into the circulation. This activity, then, is an important indicator that plaque stabilization and/or reduction is occurring. Currently, there are no plasma biomarkers that reflect the amount of plaque or determine the benefits of anti-atherosclerotic therapies.

Technology Description

UC San Diego researchers have invented a novel index of atherosclerosis regression that is determined by measuring the plasma content of oxidized phospholipids. The index could provide valuable information to physicians who would use this index to measure the efficacy of treatment with statins or new anti-atherogenic drugs.

Related Materials

1. See the published article INNOVATION: From lab to product: a blood test's story.
2. Fraley AE, Schwartz GG, Olsson AG, Kinlay S, Szarek M, Rifai N, Libby P, Ganz P, Witztum JL, Tsimikas S; MIRACL Study Investigators. Relationship of oxidized phospholipids and biomarkers of oxidized low-density lipoprotein with cardiovascular risk factors, inflammatory biomarkers, and effect of statin therapy in patients with acute coronary syndromes: Results from the MIRACL (Myocardial Ischemia Reduction with Aggressive Cholesterol Lowering) trial. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2009 Jun 9;53(23):2186-96.

Patent Status