Saanvi Vinod

Investigating Apolipoprotein B as a Diagnostic Indicator and Therapeutic Target of Coronary Artery Disease within the South Asian Population

Started Jan. 5, 2024

Abstract or project description

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions among the South Asian population. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), although South Asians represent only 25% of the global population, they account for 60% of CAD patients worldwide. A biomarker that is significantly under researched and is commonly reported among South Asians regarding the development of CAD is Apolipoprotein B (ApoB). In this review, I conducted a systematic meta-analysis of 6 peer-reviewed journal articles with interventional studies published between 2005-2024 using Google Scholar, Pub Med, and Elicit, an AI web machine that assists in finding credible articles related to the research topic. The distinct lipoprotein profile and dyslipidemia in South Asians are influenced by both genetic predisposition and lifestyle decisions, with the ApoB biomarker playing a critical role. A study by Mariola Rychlik-Sych, PhD, found significantly higher ApoB levels in women requiring PCI or CABG, and a four-fold increase in ApoB mRNA expression in men, underscoring its importance in atherosclerosis severity. Another study by the University of Kansas Medical Center reported specific APOA1 gene polymorphisms more prevalent in South Asians, contributing to lower HDL cholesterol levels in this group. Focusing on ApoB as a predictive value through Apolipoprotein-100 tests and targeted therapies could revolutionize CAD management for South Asians, emphasizing the need for ethnicity-based healthcare. By leveraging the powerful diagnostic potential of the ApoB biomarker and advocating for its use as a therapeutic target towards the unique South Asian lipoprotein profile, we can make meaningful strides in reducing the burden of CAD within this vulnerable population.