Circulating secretory type IIA phospholipase A2, lipoprotein (a) and soluble cellular adhesion molecule levels in patients with angina pectoris

Objectives To examine the plasma levels of secretory type IIA phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-IIA), lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)], soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) and soluble platelet endothelial CAM-1 (sPECAM-1), as well as ICAM-1 (K469E) and PECAM-1 (Leu125Val) gene polymorphisms, in patients with unstable angina pectoris (UAP) and stable AP (SAP). Design and methods We enrolled 75 patients with SAP, 72 with UAP and 80 controls without angina. Blood samples were obtained before angiography. Results The concentrations of sPLA2-IIA, sICAM-1 and sPECAM-1 were higher for UAP patients than for SAP patients and controls, and the level of Lp(a) was higher for UAP patients than for controls. Lp(a) and sPLA2-IIA levels were significantly correlated, and high plasma Lp(a) level (≥ 300 mg/L) was an independent risk factor for angina. Conclusion Lp(a) may play an important role in the development of angina. Further research should investigate the role of sPLA2-IIA, sICAM-1 and sPECAM-1 in UAP.