Endothelial lipase: A modulator of lipoprotein metabolism upregulated by inflammation

Both acute and chronic inflammatory states are associated with decreased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, yet the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Endothelial lipase (EL), a recently described member of the triglyceride lipase family, has been shown to be a key enzyme in HDL metabolism. Expression of EL by endothelial cells is upregulated by proinflammatory cytokines and is associated with increased EL-specific triglyceride and phospholipase activity in vitro. Thus, EL may play an important role in lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis in states of acute and chronic inflammation. (C) 2004, Elsevier Inc.