Lower pon1 lactonase activity explains part of the increased cardiovascular risk among arab versus jewish residents of jerusalem

Abstract

Objectives: Coronary heart disease incidence and mortality in Jerusalem is substantially higher in the Arab than the Jewish residents. PON1, carried by HDL, protects LDL and macrophages from oxidation via its lactonase activity, which is considered its physiological, cardioprotective function. In this first report we focus on hypothesized differences in PON1 functional phenotype and lactonase activity between Arab and Jewish residents of Jerusalem that may contribute to the increased risk among Arabs.