Apolipoprotein A-1 Test

Apolipoprotein A1 test procedure is carried out to determine the levels of Apo- A1 in your system. It also helps determine the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Apolipoprotein A-1 is a very important protein in the body as it has specific roles in the transportation and metabolism of lipids. It is also the main protein component in high-density lipoprotein, which is known as good cholesterol. It is also important to understand that lipids alone cannot dissolve in the blood. They are like the oil that floats on water. Apolipoproteins combine with lipids to form lipoprotein particles that can be transported in the bloodstream. Without Apolipoproteins, it is difficult for the lipids to get into the bloodstream alone. This is because Apolipoproteins provide structural integrity to lipoproteins and protect the water-repellent lipids at their centre. The two main lipids are triglyceride and cholesterol-rich. They are carried by Apolipoproteins throughout the body for the consumption of the cells. However, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is like an empty cab. It goes out of the tissues and picks up excess cholesterol to transport it back to the liver. The liver recycles the cholesterol for future use or excretes it through the bile. The reverse transport of the HDL is the only way the cells can get rid of excess cholesterol. The reverse transport also helps protect the arteries. Also, if an adequate amount of HDL is present, it can reverse the build-up of fatty plaques and deposits resulting from Atherosclerosis which can lead to chronic cardiovascular diseases. Also, it is important to understand that Apolipoprotein is the cab driver. It recharges the enzymes that load cholesterol from the tissues into HDL. They also allow HDL to be recognised and bound by receptors in the liver at the end of the transport. There are two types of Apolipoproteins found in the body; Apo- A1 and Apo- A2. However, Apo- A1 is found in greater proportion as compared to Apo- A2. The concentration of Apo- A1 can be measured directly with the help of the Apolipoprotein A1 test. Also, the levels of the same are directly proportional to the levels of HDL. Deficiencies of Apo- A1 can lead to risks of developing cardiovascular diseases. Based on the Apolipoprotein A1 test results, the doctor can evaluate the risk of cardiovascular diseases in your body. The doctor will also take the Apolipoprotein A1 profile test if you have a family history of abnormal lipid levels or premature cardiovascular conditions. You will further be asked to take the test if your doctor is trying to determine the cause of high cholesterol in the body. Usually, the Apolipoprotein A1 profile test will be ordered with the Apo B test to evaluate the good and bad cholesterol. Apo- A1 test is also included in the complete lipid profile test. Low HDL levels are a common problem in India. It is mostly because of unhealthy lifestyle practices. It is commonly found that 72% of Indians have low HDL levels. These people were also found with Apolipoprotein A1 deficiencies. The major cause of this is a poor diet.