Biomarkers in medicine
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Biomarkers in medicine · Jun 2013
ReviewAssessing the functional properties of high-density lipoproteins: an emerging concept in cardiovascular research.
Although plasma concentrations of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol correlate inversely with the incidence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, results from recent epidemiological, genetic and pharmacological intervention studies resulted in a shift of concept. Rather than HDL cholesterol mass levels, the functionality of HDL particles is increasingly regarded as potentially clinically important. ⋯ Gathered knowledge on the impact of different disease states on HDL function is discussed together with potential underlying causative factors modulating HDL functionalities. In addition, a perspective is provided regarding how a better understanding of the determinants of (dys)functional HDL might impact clinical practice and the future design of rational and specific therapeutic approaches targeting atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
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Biomarkers in medicine · Jun 2013
Plasma NGAL similarly predicts acute kidney injury in sepsis and nonsepsis.
Plasma NGAL is released in sepsis irrespective of acute kidney injury (AKI). The current study investigated the effect of sepsis on the diagnostic value of NGAL for AKI. ⋯ Sepsis enhances the production of plasma NGAL in critically ill adult patients irrespective of the presence of AKI. However, the diagnostic test accuracy for AKI is unaffected by sepsis, although optimal cutoff values are elevated.