[Role of lipoprotein (a) in the development of atherosclerosis and formation of thrombi].

Lipoprotein (a)--a component of plasma lipoproteins is characterized by a high similarity to plasminogen. Epidemiological studies indicate, that increased lipoprotein (a) levels predispose to the atherosclerosis. Certain studies of fibrinolytic system indicate also, that lipoprotein (a) inhibits the activity of this system. These actions may explain its contribution to the development of the arterial thrombosis.