Lipoprotein (a) : heterogeneity and biological relevance

Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a), discovered by Kaare Berg more than 25 years ago, remains today a fascinating subject of research both because of its presumed association with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and the many challenges it is offering to geneticists, structural biologists, physiologists, epidemiologists, cardiologists, and clinicians in general. Among these challenges is the elucidation of the remarkable heterogeneity exhibited by this lipoprotein particle, which is a key for understanding its biology. We will examine the various aspects of this heterogeneity and attempt to provide a global view on past and current knowledge on Lp(a) and identify those controversial areas where intensified research efforts are likely to provide important new advances.