Introduction

Oxidized LDL has been implicated as a potent atherogenic protein primarily found in atherosclerotic lesions of the coronary artery wall. Therefore, it is not only the level of LDL but the "fate" of LDL that adds to increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Oxidized LDL is directly involved in the initiation and progression of the atherosclerotic disease process from the early-stage conversion of monocytes/macrophages into lipid-laden foam cells, to the late-stage development of coronary artery stenosis, plaque instability, plaque rupture, coronary thrombosis, and myocardial infarction.

With this in mind it is easier to understand why it is that not all populations with high cholesterol diets show an equally high rate of cardiovascular disease. The redox status of the circulatory system and the level of inflammation and overall immune response at affected sites in the coronary artery wall are likely equally important (possibly more) than the actual level of LDL itself.

NWLSS is pleased to be working with National Screening Institue (NSI) to make available two versions of oxidized LDL assay (Sandwich and Competitive) for research use. NSI has exclusive worldwide rights (United States Patent: 6,309,888) to two proprietary immunoassays for oxidized LDL (low density lipoprotein) and malondialdehyde (MDA)-modified LDL. The Ox-LDL ELISA kits we feature are made by Mercodia AB, National Screening's licensed manufacturing agent and can now be purchased direct from Northwest Life Science Specialties, LLC. Both the Sandwich and Competive format OxLDL ELISA kits utilize the same antibody used by Hoelvet, et al 1998 and 2001. The Sandwich ELISA also utilizes an anti-apo B detection antibody.