The importance of Lp(a)-fibronectin interaction in atherogenesis

Abstract

An elevated concentration of lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) in serum has been considered a risk factor for coronary heart disease by various investigators. The apo(a) portion of Lp(a) binds to the carboxyterminal heparin binding domain of fibronectin. Lp(a) bound to fibronectin is internalized through the fibronectin receptor pathway and thereby causes increased accumulation of lipid and foam cell formation. In the present study, fibronectin and Lp(a) concentrations have been assayed in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and healthy subjects.