Apolipoprotein A1 (APO-A1) is a protein component of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), often referred to as "good cholesterol." It plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism by helping remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transporting it to the liver for excretion or recycling. High levels of APO-A1 are generally associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease because they facilitate the process of "reverse cholesterol transport."
The APO-A1 test measures the amount of this protein in your blood, and it is commonly used to assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis, as low levels of APO-A1 can indicate an increased risk. This test is often part of a broader lipid profile to evaluate lipid health and overall heart health.