About Our Test
WHY TEST FOR OXIDIZED – LDL
OxLDL using the 4E6 mAb is the best biomarker for diagnosing CAD and evaluating treatment. Left untreated, the level of OxLDL increases with the buildup of plaque in the arterial wall and spikes when the plaque ruptures and malondialdehyde (MDA) enters the blood stream. It is well documented that binding of platelets to MDA modified LDL entering the bloodstream from the ruptured plaque results in thrombosis. Small clots can be transported throughout the body where they can be dissolved. However, over time blockage to the flow of oxygen causes slow damage to appendages, eyes, and other vital organs, while larger clots can lead to myocardial infarction and strokes. Low levels of oxidized LDL are truly a marker of longevity.
WHY IS OXIDIZED LDL USING 4E6 THE BEST BIOMARKER
Tissue Plasminogen Activator (t-PA) is the leading emergency room treatment to dissolve blood clots in patients with MI. Development of the test was headed by Desire Collen at the University of Leuven, Belgium. As part of his team of leading scientists from around the world, Paul Holvoet, PhD screened the ideal set of patients and developed two antibodies and corresponding assays. OxLDL based on the unique 4E6 mAb for chronic CAD and MDA 8A2 mAb for acute CAD. It is noteworthy that:
(A) MDA-modified LDL is only found in the blood stream of patients with ruptured plaque, it is not found in healthy patients.
(B) Oxidized LDL using 4E6 is found in all patients with some form of plaque, increases with the degree of plaque and will also spike in patients with ruptured plaque.
VERIFICATION OF MEDICAL EFFICACY
National Screening Institute obtained the sole worldwide right to the Leuven cell lines and technology in 1990’s, and sub licensed Mercodia, AB located in Uppsala, Sweden to develop assays for verification and medical studies. Initial study was performed by Nina Johnston at the University of Leuven under the guidance of Lars Wallentin head of cardiology for both the University and Sweden.