The role of paraoxonase 1 in regulating high-density lipoprotein functionality during aging.

ABSTRACT

Pharmacological interventions to increase the concentration of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) have led to disappointing results and have contributed to the emergence of the concept of HDL functionality. The anti-atherogenic activity of HDLs can be explained by their functionality or quality. The capacity of HDLs to maintain cellular cholesterol homeostasis and to transport cholesterol from peripheral cells to the liver for elimination is one of their principal anti-atherogenic activities. However, HDLs possess several other attributes that contribute to their protective effect against cardiovascular diseases. HDL functionality is regulated by various proteins and lipids making up HDL particles. However, several studies investigated the role of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) and suggest a significant role of this protein in the regulation of the functionality of HDLs. Moreover, research on PON1 attracted much interest following several studies indicating that it is involved in cardiovascular protection. However, the mechanisms by which PON1 exerts these effects remain to be elucidated.