Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an essential enzyme with significant implications for cardiovascular health. Found in immune cells like neutrophils and monocytes, MPO plays a crucial role in the body’s immune response by producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) to combat pathogens. However, elevated levels of MPO have been linked to inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key contributors to cardiovascular conditions.1 For laboratories, testing for MPO can provide critical data to support and advance cardiovascular research.
What Is Myeloperoxidase (MPO)?
MPO is an enzyme that specific immune cells produce to help defend the body against infection. During an immune response, MPO generates hypochlorous acid (HOCl), a potent oxidant, to destroy harmful bacteria and other microorganisms. While this function is vital for immunity, excessive MPO activity can contribute to tissue damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation—all of which are associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD).1
The Importance of Measuring MPO
Adding MPO testing to your laboratory’s research offering can provide valuable insights into cardiovascular health and help improve clinical outcomes. Here’s why testing for myeloperoxidase is essential:
Role in Inflammation
MPO is a key player in the inflammatory process. It amplifies the production of oxidants, which can damage tissues and exacerbate inflammatory conditions. Elevated MPO levels have been shown to indicate heightened inflammatory activity, providing critical data to help assess cardiovascular health.
Implications for Cardiovascular Disease
Myeloperoxidase contributes to the development and progression of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by plaque buildup in the arteries. By modifying low-density lipoproteins (LDL) into oxidized LDL (ox-LDL), MPO promotes the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. This process increases the risk of conditions such as coronary artery disease and heart failure.1
Biomarker for Cardiovascular Risk
High levels of MPO in the blood are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke.1,2 Testing for MPO in research applications can provide a valuable method to assess cardiovascular risk, complementing traditional lipid panel testing.
Monitoring Disease Progression and Treatment Response
MPO measurement has been found to be a valuable tool for monitoring disease progression and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment interventions.3 Investigating MPO levels over time can offer insights into an individual’s response to therapies aimed at reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Early Detection and Prevention
Research shows elevated MPO levels can signal early-stage cardiovascular risk before more severe symptoms or events occur.1,2 By identifying elevated myeloperoxidase levels, labs can help support the investigation of preventative strategies to reduce cardiovascular risk and improve overall health outcomes.
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Testing Myeloperoxidase with ELISA
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a reliable method for measuring MPO levels in blood samples. MPO ELISAs offer sensitivity and specificity, ensuring accurate results laboratories can trust. By incorporating MPO ELISA testing into your lab’s research portfolio, you can support investigators with actionable data to advance cardiovascular research.
Empower Your Lab with MPO Testing
Testing for MPO can provide labs with valuable data to support and advance research.
Let’s collaborate to advance research for improved cardiovascular health outcomes. Contact our team today to discover more.
References
- Khan, A.A., et al. “Myeloperoxidase as an Active Disease Biomarker: Recent Biochemical and Pathological Perspectives.” Medical Sciences. (Basel, Switzerland). 6(2):33. 18 Apr 2018. doi:10.3390/medsci6020033
- Ndrepepa, G. “Myeloperoxidase – A bridge linking inflammation and oxidative stress with cardiovascular disease.” Clinica Chimica Acta. 493: 36-51. Jun 2019. doi:10.1016/j.cca.2019.02.022
- Ramachandra, C.J.A., et al. “Myeloperoxidase As a Multifaceted Target for Cardiovascular Protection.” Antioxidants & Redox Signaling. 32(15):1135-1149. 20 May 2020. doi:10.1089/ars.2019.7971
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