Approved Research

Lipoprotein (a) and risk of clinical outcomes including chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular diseases and cancers among different glycemic status: an interactive and prospective analysis

Lay summary

Strong evidence in epidemiological studies and clinical trials have verified that high level of blood lipoprotein (a) (Lp[a]) levels, one of the important components of blood lipids, were associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and an indication of premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Interestingly, previous studies demonstrated an inverse relationship between Lp(a) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). A high level of blood Lp[a] associates a lower risk of developing T2D. 

It is known that T2D is a well-established risk factor for CVD. The mechanism of this contradictory association of Lp(a) with CVD and T2D is remains elucidated. Therefore, it is important to understand the attributes of Lp(a)-lowering the cardiovascular risk and consequences of T2D. However, rare studies and no recommendation investigated how to specifically manage high Lp(a) concentration among populations with different status of glucose metabolism (T2D, prediabetes, and normal glucose regulation).

In this project, we aimed to

- detangle the association between Lp(a) and the important health outcomes, including CVD, chronic kidney diseases (CKD), and cancers among populations stratified by glycemic status.

- construct the genetic risk scores (GRS) of Lp(a) and T2D, respectively, to investigate the interactive and combined effect on CVD, CKD, and cancer risk.

- detect the causal relationship of Lp(a) with CVD or T2D risk using a mendelian randomization analysis.

We expect a project duration of 36 months. The analysis will provide strong evidence to instruct the better lipids and glucose management while in the prevention and treatment of CVD, CKD, and cancer patients.