Lipoprotein(a) in Cardiovascular Medicine: From Recognition to Clinical Action

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has emerged as a major, genetically determined risk factor in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and calcific aortic valve disease. Recent epidemiological, genetic, and mechanistic studies have highlighted Lp(a)’s central role in promoting inflammation, thrombosis, and vascular calcification, contributing to substantial residual risk even when traditional lipid parameters are controlled. Despite these advances, Lp(a) remains under measured in clinical practice, and its unique contribution to cardiovascular risk is commonly underestimated. With targeted therapies now advancing through late-phase clinical trials, it is increasingly urgent to translate new scientific insights into improved strategies for risk assessment and patient management.

This Research Topic aims to bridge the gap from fundamental recognition of Lp(a)’s biology to broad clinical implementation. The collection seeks to translate mechanistic knowledge into prevention and treatment strategies, refine screening and risk stratification approaches across diverse populations, and integrate Lp(a) measurements into comprehensive cardiovascular risk models to enhance clinical decision-making and patient outcomes. Submissions that clarify Lp(a)’s role in disease progression, improve methods for quantification and interpretation, or explore novel diagnostic and therapeutic frameworks are encouraged. By drawing together expertise from genetics, epidemiology, translational research, and implementation science, the collection hopes to lay a comprehensive foundation for evidence-based action and promote equitable access to Lp(a) measurement and management worldwide.

We welcome original research, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses exploring all clinical, translational, and mechanistic aspects of Lp(a) in cardiovascular medicine, particularly studies addressing:
• Development and validation of novel Lp(a) assays
• Epidemiology and genetic determinants in diverse populations
• Mechanisms linking Lp(a) with inflammation, thrombosis, calcification, and immune processes
• Imaging and biomarker development for monitoring Lp(a) impact
• The development and outcomes of Lp(a)-lowering therapies
• Interactions between Lp(a) and other cardiovascular risk factors
• Lp(a)’s role in various clinical scenarios, including risk stratification and management
• Health economics and practical implementation of Lp(a) screening strategies

Authors should emphasize the translational relevance and clinical implications of their work, highlighting innovative approaches and future research directions. By consolidating multidisciplinary perspectives, this collection aims to accelerate the journey from emerging discovery to clinical practice, closing the residual risk gap and improving outcomes for patients at risk of cardiovascular disease.

Keywords: Lipoprotein(a), cardiovascular, residual risk, inflammation, thrombosis

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.