Two-dimensional electrophoresis of human plasma apolipoproteins.

The two-dimensional electrophoretic method with silver staining we describe better resolves plasma apolipoproteins (apo) than any procedure previously described. It can be used to screen for abnormalities in apoA-I, apoA-II, apoA-IV, apoC-II, apoC-III, apoD, apoE, and apoH. In addition, this is the first presentation of apoD and apoH on two-dimensional gels. This electrophoretic method will permit the quantification of plasma apolipoproteins by computer imaging. Such detailed analysis of the plasma apolipoproteins should provide a better understanding of apolipoprotein function and the role these apolipoproteins play in lipoprotein metabolism and the pathophysiology of dyslipoproteinemias and coronary artery disease.