Modulation of Low Density Lipoprotein Self-association with Pluronic Block Copolymers

Abstract

Aim. A key factor of atherogenesis is the accumulation of cholesterol in the intima of main arteries. It is known that low density lipoproteins (LDL) are responsible for the transport of cholesterol in the body. It was previously shown that only LDL associates (aggregates) causes lipid accumulation in cultured cells, i.e. atherogenic. Aim of this study was to find inhibitors of the association of LDL isolated from the blood of patients with coronary heart disease.
Materials and methods. We used Pluronic block copolymers P85, L61 and F68. The total LDL fraction was isolated from serum of patients with cardiovascular diseases. Degree of association of LDL was measured by recording the fluctuations of light transmission through the device. The average size of the formed associates evaluated by quasi-elastic scattering on the laser device Autosayzer 2 Malvern.
Results. Multivariate predictors and markers of an abdominal aortic calcification included female gender, systolic arterial hypertension, smoking duration, hyperhomocysteinemia, a high serum C-reactive protein level, ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease and osteoporosis