A comparison of the lipoprotein lipase activity in the tissues and post-heparin plasma of atherosclerosis-susceptible and atherosclerosis-resistant pigeons.

1. The lipoprotein lipase activity measured in acetone-ether powders of tissues from White Carneau and Show Racer pigeons was invariably somewhat lower in the former compared with the latter species. 2. At 100 and 200 Units of heparin per kg body weight the peak post-heparin lipolytic activity present in the plasma of White Carneau pigeons was significantly lower than that for Show Racers. At 50 Units per kg, this position was reversed. 3. It was concluded that the White Carneau pigeon may have an impaired functional lipoprotein lipase capacity compared to the Show Racer control.