Functional Lecithin: Cholesterol Acyltransferase Is Not Required for Efficient Atheroprotection in Humans

Abstract

Background-Mutations in the LCAT

Patients with low HDL-cholesterol caused by mutations in LCAT have increased arterial stiffness

“…However, we previously showed that carotid wall thickness measured with MRI and ultrasound is enhanced compared to controls suggesting accelerated atherosclerosis [7]. Contrary to our previous report, Calabresi et al have shown a decreased carotid wall thickness in LCAT mutation carriers [6,7]. These seemingly conflicting results might be explained by differences in gene mutations.…”

“…In this respect, two ultrasound studies reached opposite conclusions, one study reporting increased intima media thickness (IMT) in the carotid arteries of carriers as a surrogate outcome for atherosclerosis [5] and the other reporting decreased IMT in carotid arteries of carriers compared controls [6]. We have recently confirmed the findings of our earlier study by showing structural abnormalities in the carotid arteries of LCAT mutation carriers with low HDL-c compared to matched controls using both ultrasound and 3.0 T magnetic resonance imaging of the carotid arteries [7].…”

HDL and atherosclerosis: Insights from inherited HDL disorders

“…Three IMT studies have been carried out in carriers of LCAT gene mutations [76][77][78]; altogether, the results suggest that LCAT deficiency does not remarkably increases preclinical atherosclerosis, and according to the Italian study could even be protective for human arteries [78]. The Italian study evaluated 40 carriers of LCAT deficiency (12 homozygotes or compound heterozygotes, and 28 heterozygotes, Table 1) in comparison with 80 matched control subjects [78]; average carotid IMT was 0.07 mm smaller in the carriers than controls (Fig.…”

“…The Italian study evaluated 40 carriers of LCAT deficiency (12 homozygotes or compound heterozygotes, and 28 heterozygotes, Table 1) in comparison with 80 matched control subjects [78]; average carotid IMT was 0.07 mm smaller in the carriers than controls (Fig. 2), and the inheritance of a mutated LCAT genotype had a remarkable gene-dose dependent effect in reducing carotid IMT [78].…”

A review on lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase deficiency

“…167 While some studies show association between LCAT levels and AS ). A recent IMT study done by 190 Calabresi et al [26] has found that in carriers of LCAT mutations LCAT 191 deficiency is not associated with increased atherosclerosis. of AS is small.…”