HDL function in diabetes
Background: The levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-bound cholesterol do not accurately explain the atheroprotective effect of HDL. Functional aspects of HDL seem to be better predictive measures of cardiovascular disease risk.
Aims: To determine the ability of a novel assay for HDL function to predict cardiovascular disease risk. We would like to test large patient cohorts to evaluate the potential clinical utility of the assay.
Methods: Dr. Michael N. Oda has invented the HDL-apoA-I exchange assay (HAE). It indirectly measures the ability of apoA-I to dissociate from HDL and initiate reverse cholesterol transport, the primary atheroprotective property of HDL. The assay applies recombinant apoA-I and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and it is relatively fast and easy to perform. Currently, the assay must be run in Dr. Oda's laboratory in California, but we are applying for funds for a designated EPR-machine in Oslo.