Leukocyte Telomere Length & HDL Cholesterol Linked

In a recently published study Atherosclerosis Journal, "Leukocyte telomere length is associated with HDL cholesterol levels: The Bogalusa heart study," researchers believe LTL (Leukocyte Telomere Length) is correlated to HDL cholesterol levels.  A decline in HDL-C can increase the rate at which LTL shortens.

The study provides us potential insight into risk factors and the higher probabilities of those with lower HDL-C levels to be at an increased risk of Heart Disease or Atherosclerosis.

First let's define some of the terminology used in the study:

What is LTL, or Leukocyte Telomere Length?

A leukocyte is a type of immune cell. Most leukocytes are made in the bone marrow and are found in the blood and lymph tissue. Leukocytes help the body fight infections and other diseases. Granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes are leukocytes. Also called WBC and white blood cell. (Source: cancer.gov)

Thus, the LTL is the length of the telomeres associated with Leukocyte cells.

What is HDL-C, or High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol?

HDL, also known as "good cholesterol" is a lipoprotein that is being studied as aiding in the removal of cholesterol from arteries and transporting it to the liver for excretion.  It is said to have cardioprotective properties and a level of 50 mg/dL or above is ideal. (Source: wikipedia)

What is Atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis (ath-er-o-skler-O-sis) is a disease in which plaque (plak) builds up on the insides of your arteries.  Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood to your heart and other parts of your body.

Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood.  Over time, plaque hardens and narrows your arteries.  The flow of oxygen-rich blood to your organs and other parts of your body is reduced.  This can lead to serious problems, including heart attack, stroke, or even death. (Source: nhlbi.gov)

Now that we have cleared up some terminology challenges let's look at the study:

"Leukocyte telomere length is associated with HDL cholesterol levels: The Bogalusa heart study"

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The results showed a higher HDL-C level had a positive effect on LTL in childhood and adulthood in both subject groups.  In my opinion further confirming the benefits of higher HDL levels.