Measurement of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is being used to determine th e concentrations of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), low-density lipopr otein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) subclasses of different siz e. These subclasses have unequal associations with coronary heart disease. Nuclear magnetic resonance distinguishes among the subclasses on the basis of slight differences in the spectral properties of the lipids carried with in the particles, which vary according to the diameter of the phospholipid shell. Studies using NMR spectroscopy have shown that individuals with elev ated triglycerides are likely to have higher-risk lipoprotein subclass prof iles. Triglyceride-rich lipoproteins drive the metabolic reactions that pro duce LDL of abnormal size and cholesterol content. The quantities of these abnormal LDL particles and the associated risk of coronary heart disease ar e underestimated by conventional cholesterol measurements. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy measures lipoprotein subclasses directly and effici ently, and produces information that may improve the assessment and managem ent of cardiovascular disease risk.