August 11th, 2010.
The benefits of high-density lipoproteins (HDL), the ‘good’ cholesterol, have been further revealed in research released by The HRI today. Published today in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis & Vascular Biology the research details outcomes of a one-week trial of high dose HDL injections.
“The trial showed that a short-term series of high dose HDL injections was able to reduce the expression of chemokines in the circulation and in atherosclerotic plaques by around 30-40%” HRI researcher Dr Christina Bursill said.
“Chemokines are key markers for atherosclerosis, which develops because of an accumulation of inflammatory cells in the walls of blood vessels and leads to the formation of plaque that can ultimately block the vessel, causing heart attack or stroke.”
Dr Bursill said the findings clearly show a link between HDL and its capacity to suppress the progression of atherosclerosis by regulating the activity of chemokines.
“Lifestyle issues such as smoking, alcohol, diet and lack of exercise all contribute to damage of vascular cells. Our body produces chemokines when it detects cell damage and their number and level of activity grows in response to this inflammation.”
“Through a series of 5 daily HDL injections we were able to significantly reduce chemokines in the blood and in atherosclerotic plaques.”
“Clearly HDL plays an important role in protecting the body against atherosclerosis.”
Dr Bursill said the findings reveal an important role for chemokines in the anti-atherosclerotic and anti-inflammatory effects of HDL.
“This research provides further information on the positive effects of HDL.”
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