The Development of ELISA Methods for the Measurement of Oxidized LDLs and Autoantibodies Against Oxidized LDLs in Human Serum

A significant risk factor for the development of heart disease appears to be oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDLs). Currently there are no methods which specifically measure oxidized LDLs in serum. ELISA methods were developed which specifically detect oxLDLs and autoantibodies against oxLDLs in human serum. These sensitive assays can detect oxLDLs in concentrations as small as 50 ng/mL serum. Optimal assay conditions such as serum and antibody dilutions, as well as blocking agents and washing buffers were determined. The assays have successfully detected greater amounts of oxLDLs and autoantibodies in more concentrated serum dilutions. Ultimately these assays may be used to quantify levels of oxidatively modified LDLs in patient serum. If oxLDLs could be correlated with other risk factors, it may be possible to more accurately predict a patient\u27s risk for developing heart disease