| Summary: | <p>Abstract</p> <p>The association of cardiovascular events with Lp-PLA<sub>2 </sub>has been studied continuously today. The enzyme has been strongly associated with several cardiovascular risk markers and events. Its discovery was directly related to the hydrolysis of the platelet-activating factor and oxidized phospholipids, which are considered protective functions. However, the hydrolysis of bioactive lipids generates lysophospholipids, compounds that have a pro-inflammatory function. Therefore, the evaluation of the distribution of Lp-PLA<sub>2 </sub>in the lipid fractions emphasized the dual role of the enzyme in the inflammatory process, since the HDL-Lp-PLA<sub>2 </sub>enzyme contributes to the reduction of atherosclerosis, while LDL-Lp-PLA<sub>2 </sub>stimulates this process. Recently, it has been verified that diet components and drugs can influence the enzyme activity and concentration. Thus, the effects of these treatments on Lp-PLA<sub>2 </sub>may represent a new kind of prevention of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, the association of the enzyme with the traditional assessment of cardiovascular risk may help to predict more accurately these diseases.</p>
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