Abstract
High plasma levels of Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) are associated with increased risks of coronary heart disease. In sedentary adults, Lackner, C. et al. (1991) reported that the size of the apolipoprotein(a) gene(Apo(a)) is inversely related to the level of plasma Lp(a). The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of regular intensive training on the Apo(a) genotype / Lp(a) level in adolescents. Thirty elite young athletes (girls, n=8; boys, n=22) aged 15-18 years participated in this study. The population was divided into 2 groups: endurance athletes(n=16) and power athletes (n=14). Blood Lp(a) concentration was ascertained using an electroimmunodiffusion technique in agarose gel. Apo(a) genotypes were determined by means of pulsed field electrophoresis. No significant differences in Lp(a) levels were found, neither between boys and girls, nor between the two training groups. In the present study, genotype analysis revealed an inverse relationship between the size of theApo(a) allele and the Lp(a) plasma level (r =0.7, P = 0.0008). These data suggest that Lp(a) level is largely genetically determined, and rather unaffected by lifestyle variables such as regular physical activity.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
