Oxidized lipoproteins in blood plasma: Possible marker of atherosclerosis progression

Oxidized lipoproteins and antioxidants were detected during the course of h ypercholesterolemia development in cholesterol-fed rabbits. Lipid peroxides in blood plasma and very-low-, low-, and high-density lipoproteins (beta-V LDL, LDL, and HDL) were increased during the course of hypercholesterolemia . The content of phospholipid peroxides increased in beta-VLDL and LDL in p arallel to that of cholesterol, whereas the amount of alpha-tocopherol was decreased either in lipoproteins or blood plasma. Ascorbate and urate conce ntrations were also decreased. Lipid peroxides were positively correlated w ith volume and area of atherosclerotic lesions, suggesting a relation betwe en the concentrations of lipid peroxides in blood plasma and the progressio n of atheromatous lesions.