Immunolocalization of apolipoproteins in aortic atherosclerosis in American youths and young adults: findings from the PDAY study

The immunohistochemical distribution of apolipoproteins in the abdominal ao rtas of 142 men, 15-34 years of age, collected in a cooperative multicenter study group (Pathobiological Determinants of Atherosclerosis in Youth) was examined in relationship to serum VLDL + LDL + HDL cholesterol levels. Apo B deposits were limited to the intima of specimens with intimal fibro cellu lar thickening or atherosclerotic lesions. Apo A-I, E and J were observed i n both the intima and media of the aortas with intimal lesions. The pattern of apoJ distribution was similar to that of apoA-I and E. The distribution patterns of these apolipoproteins in these young adults were very similar to those in adults and old men seen in an earlier study. The extent of apol ipoprotein distribution in the intima and media increased with age and the stage of atherosclerosis development, but was not correlated significantly with serum VLDL + LDL or HDL cholesterol levels. The infiltration of lipopr otein particles into the aortic wall seems to be more strongly associated w ith the progression of intimal lesions rather than with serum cholesterol l evels. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.