Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 concentrations in plasma are associated with the extent of coronary artery disease and correlate to adipose tissue levels of marine n-3 fatty acids

Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is an emerging risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In the present study, plasma levels of Lp-PLA2 were measured in patients (n = 301) admitted to elective coronary angiography because of suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). In a multiple linear regression analysis, the degree of CAD (0-, 1-, 2- or 3-vessel disease) and plasma LDL cholesterol significantly correlated to Lp-PLA2 levels. Also the content of the marine n-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in adipose tissue, a measure of long-term intake of seafood independently and inversely (r = −0.18, p < 0.01) correlated with plasma levels of Lp-PLA2. The results support the view that Lp-PLA2 may relate to CAD and that intake of marine n-3 fatty acids might reduce plasma Lp-PLA2 suggesting another mechanism by which n-3 fatty acids could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.