NPJ Cardiovascular Health · Feb 2, 2026

A narrative review of impacts of apolipoproteins on atherosclerotic coronary plaques

By Fukase T, Dohi T

Apolipoproteins are structural components of lipoproteins involved in assembly, enzyme regulation, structural integrity, and receptor binding. Apoprotein(a) forms lipoprotein(a), apolipoprotein A-I drives reverse cholesterol transport, apolipoprotein B reflects atherogenic particle number, and apolipoprotein C-III regulates triglycerides. This review highlights the clinical significance of these apolipoproteins in coronary plaque characteristics detected by imaging modality. Additionally, we summarize the current clinical status of therapeutic agents targeting these apolipoproteins and its future potential.

doi.org/10.1038/s44325-026-00104-xOpen accessPubMed 41775966Interventions