THE DEMOGRAPHICS OF GENETIC CHOLESTEROLS APOLIPOPROTEIN a

Apolipoprotein a circulates in the blood stream in amounts that vary from 1 mg/dl to 100mg/dl, but is usually found in the 20mg/dl range. Higher levels are found in women that are in menopause and in patients that have had a myocardial infarction and patients with diabetes mellitus.

Several large studies have found (apo a), in patients who are at high risk for early coronary heart disease. High levels are also present in patients with Familial hypercholesterolemia.

Apo a has also been associated with an increase incidence for heart disease in the Asian community but not in American Afro Americans.

Several mechanisms have been proposed as to the relationship between apo a and atherosclerosis and thrombus(blood clot).

Apo a displaces plamsminogen from sites on fibrin and fibrinogen and inhibits plamsinogen activation, thereby rendering it's ability to break down clots.

Apo a interferes with the fibrinolytic system.

Inhibits Streptokinase AND TPA both of the latter are needed to break down clots.

Apo a also may enhance the delivery of ldl particles to the artery wall.

APO a has been found in atherosclerotic plaque.

I will be going to my lipid specialist in 2 weeks. I haven't been on a statin or niaspan, for about 8 months. I also will be tested for a Vit D level as I am at higher risk than the normal population and should have a lower value,at this visit I have to remember what a very well known public TV speaker says, "Excuses be Begone".

I was given a prescription by my gynecologist for vit D3. and have been taking the vitamin for about two weeks. I have to say I do feel lot better. I don't know if this is a placebo effect,if it is, I will take the good feeling.

Reference: Williams Hematology, Sixth Edition



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