The Role of High-Density Lipoproteins in Reducing the Risk of Vascular Diseases, Neurogenerative Disorders, and Cancer

Abstract

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is one of the major carriers of cholesterol in the blood. It attracts particular attention because, in contrast with other lipoproteins, as many physiological functions of HDL influence the cardiovascular system in favourable ways unless HDL is modified pathologically. The functions of HDL that have recently attracted attention include anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities. High anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of HDL are associated with protection from cardiovascular disease. Atheroprotective activities, as well as a functional deficiency of HDL, ultimately depend on the protein and lipid composition of HDL. Further, numerous epidemiological studies have shown a protective association between HDL-cholesterol and cognitive impairment. Oxidative stress, including lipid peroxidation, has been shown to be the mediator of the pathologic effects of numerous risk factors of Alzheimer's disease. Lifestyle interventions proven to increase HDL- cholesterol levels including “healthy” diet, regular exercise, weight control, and smoking cessation have also been shown to provide neuro-protective effects. This review will focus on current knowledge of the beneficial effects of HDL-cholesterol as it relates to cardiovascular diseases, breast and lung cancers, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, as well as its neuroprotective potential in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Genetic pleiotropy between age-related macular degeneration and 16 complex diseases and traits

“…For example, it has long been recognized that HDL plays a crucial role in preventing cardiovascular disease and is believed to be neuroprotective while reducing the risk for other neuropathies, e.g. Alzheimer’s disease [102] due to anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties [103]. According to our findings, AMD patients should have higher HDL, lower LDL, and lower total glycerol levels in their serum compared with controls, well in agreement with published data [104–106].…”

Serum Lipid Profile and Risk of Prostate Cancer Recurrence: Results from the SEARCH Database

“…While LDL levels are important for estimating cardiovascular disease risk, it is unknown which cholesterol subfractions are most important for tumor growth, and this requires further study. Although the primary mechanism by which HDL reduces cardiovascular disease risk is via reverse cholesterol transport [28], it is not known whether this same mechanism may impact PC growth. HDL has also been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and anti-oxidant properties [29] which may slow PC growth and progression, although epidemiologic evidence has been inconclusive [22].…”

Dietary Strategies Implicated in the Prevention and Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome

“…Oxidative stress is defined as an imbalance between the pro-oxidants and antioxidants in the body [24]. It plays a key role in the development of atherosclerosis by different mechanisms such as the oxidation of LDL-c particles [25] or impairment of HDL-c functions [26]. Inflammation is an immune system response to injury hypothesized to be a major mechanism in the pathogenesis and progression of obesity related disorders and the link between adiposity, insulin resistance, MetS and CVD [27].…”