What is Apolipoprotein B (Apo B)?
Blood fat disorders (lipid metabolism) give an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) is the protein component of LDL cholesterol, also called "the bad cholesterol". Apolipoprotein B contributes to the transport of LDL cholesterol and can cause the LDL cholesterol to get stuck in the blood vessels, which affects the walls, which then become stiff, which in itself can lead to a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases.
What can high or low levels of Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) mean?
A suggested desirable level of Apolipoprotein B is < 0.90 g/L but no such recommendation has been established. A high level is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
In hyperlipidemia, kidney disease, liver disease and hypothyroidism, high levels of Apolipoprotein B can be seen.
Low levels are seen with cholesterol-lowering treatment and familial hypo-β-lipoproteinemia.
Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1)
Apolipoprotein A1 Apo A1 is found in HDL cholesterol, which is our "good cholesterol" as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Apolipoprotein A1 transports excess cholesterol from our cells to the liver for burning, which contributes to reduced fat deposits in the blood vessels.
