The plasma parameter log (TG/HDL-C) as an atherogenic index: correlation with lipoprotein particle size and esterification rate inapob-lipoprotein-depleted plasma (FERHDL)

Objectives: To evaluate if logarithm of the ratio of plasma concentration of triglycerides to HDL-cholesterol (Log[TG/HDL-C]) correlates with cholesterol esterification rates in apoB-lipoprotein-depleted plasma (FERHDL) and lipoprotein particle size. Design and methods: We analyzed previous data dealing with the parameters related to the FERHDL (an indirect measure of lipoprotein particle size). In a total of 1433 subjects from 35 cohorts with various risk of atherosclerosis (cord plasma, children, healthy men and women, pre- and postmenopausal women, patients with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia and patients with positive or negative angiography findings) were studied. Results: The analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.803) between FERHDL and Log(TG/HDL-C). This parameter, which we propose to call “atherogenic index of plasma ” (AIP) directly related to the risk of atherosclerosis in the above cohorts. We also confirmed in a cohort of 35 normal subjects a significant inverse correlation of LDL size with FERHDL (r = −0.818) and AIP (r = −0.776). Conclusion: Values of AIP correspond closely to those of FERHDL and to lipoprotein particle size and thus could be used as a marker of plasma atherogenicity.