Apolipoprotein B

What is Apolipoprotein B?

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is the single protein on each LDL, VLDL, IDL, and Lp(a) particle. Since each atherogenic particle carries exactly one ApoB molecule, measuring ApoB directly counts the total number of particles that can cause atherosclerosis — regardless of how much cholesterol each particle carries.

What might a high or low Apolipoprotein B mean?

ApoB is the most accurate single measure of atherogenic risk. When LDL-C and ApoB are discordant (common in metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and obesity), cardiovascular risk tracks with ApoB, not LDL-C. Many experts consider ApoB the single best lipid marker for predicting heart disease.

What is the typical reference range for Apolipoprotein B?

The general-population reference range shown here is 44 – 174 mg/dL. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.

What can affect Apolipoprotein B?

It may be higher with: Same factors as LDL, Insulin resistance (increases small dense LDL count), High triglycerides (more VLDL particles), Familial hypercholesterolemia, Saturated fat, Obesity. It may be lower with: Statins (reduce LDL particle count), PCSK9 inhibitors, Weight loss, Exercise, Low-carb diet, Plant sterols, Ezetimibe.