Researchers at the Chalmers University of Technology have identified two types of blood-borne fat-transporting particles, TRL and Lp(a), that may contribute to cardiovascular disease through mechanisms beyond simple cholesterol accumulation, according to findings published in the European Heart Journal.
The study examined nearly 3,000 proteins in blood samples from participants in the UK Biobank who had no prior history of heart disease.
While lowering LDL cholesterol is a long-established standard for preventing heart attacks and strokes, many patients continue to face cardiovascular risks even when their LDL levels are managed. This phenomenon is known as “residual cardiovascular risk,” or residual cardiovascular risk. The World Health Organization estimates that cardiovascular diseases cause nearly 17.9 million deaths annually, with over 80% of these attributable to heart attacks and strokes.
TRL particles, which include VLDL produced by the liver, and Lp(a), which contains an additional apolipoprotein(a) protein, appear to attract immune cells. By identifying these biological pathways, researchers hope to move toward more personalized prevention strategies. However, experts emphasize that current medical guidance still relies on individual risk assessment and adherence to prescribed therapies.
While the study explores new biological targets, current clinical practice continues to focus on established interventions. In a separate clinical trial published in Jama Cardiology, experts from Aarhus University in Denmark found that intensive combination therapy can lead to the regression of atherosclerotic plaque.
In that study, involving 104 adults with angina and significant coronary artery disease, patients treated with a combination of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe saw a 21.1% reduction in total plaque volume, compared to a 13.6% reduction with standard statin treatment.
Regarding the new findings on TRL and Lp(a), researchers caution that it is currently premature to discuss absolute targeted treatments. Future studies are required to determine if measuring or targeting these specific particles can concretely improve preventative outcomes beyond existing standards.
Readers concerned about their cardiovascular health should consult qualified medical professionals to discuss their specific risk factors, such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as prevention must be tailored to the individual.
