Oxidized LDL
Overview
Oxidized LDL measures low-density lipoprotein particles chemically modified by reactive oxygen species, promoting foam cell formation and atherosclerotic plaque development. These modified lipoproteins trigger endothelial dysfunction, monocyte recruitment, and inflammatory responses central to atherogenesis. Elevated levels indicate increased oxidative stress and cardiovascular risk; low levels correlate with vascular protection. Clinically, oxidized LDL testing identifies patients with enhanced atherosclerosis risk beyond traditional lipid parameters.
Clinical Use Cases
- Assessing residual cardiovascular risk in treated dyslipidemia patients.
- Evaluating early atherosclerosis in subclinical populations.
- Research biomarker for antioxidant therapy trials.
- Risk stratification in familial hypercholesterolemia.
Specimen Types
- Plasma (EDTA preferred).
- Serum.
Measurement Methods
- Competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
- Chemiluminescent immunoassay.
- Electrophoresis with oxidation-specific antibodies.
Test Preparation and Influencing Factors
- Fasting preferred; avoid vitamin C/E supplementation for 48 hours.
- Smoking, diabetes, and hypertension accelerate LDL oxidation.
- Statins and antioxidants may lower oxidized LDL levels.
- Sample processing delay promotes artifactual oxidation.
Synonyms
- OxLDL.
- Oxidatively modified LDL.