Ordering information

(L) Indicates liquid reagent

Instrument Specific Applications (ISA’s) are available for a wide range of biochemistry analysers. Contact us to enquire about your specific analyser.

Physiological Significance

Apo C – II is a 79-amino acid protein synthesised in the liver and is the co-factor for lipid transport in the bloodstream 1. Apo C – II is a surface constituent of lipoproteins and the C – terminal helix activates lipoprotein lipase (LPL) 2. The active peptide of apo C – II corresponds to residues 44 – 79 and has been identified to reverse the symptoms of genetic apo C – II deficiency. Moreover, LPL is also a key enzyme in the regulation of triglyceride levels 3.

Clinical Significance

Both an excess and deficiency of apo C – II is associated with hypertriglyceridemia and reduced LPL activity. Elevated levels of apo C-II is associated with excess triglyceride – rich particles and altercations in the distribution of HDL particles, increasing the risk of CVD 4. Whilst extremely rare, a deficiency in apo C-II results in excess fasting hypertriglyceridemia and chylomicronemia. Hypertriglyceridemia can cause eruptive xanthomas, pancreatitis, hepatosplenomegaly and lipemia retinalis. Biologically and clinically, apo C – II deficiency closely mimics LPL deficiency. Synonyms for apo C-II deficiency include: C – II an apolipoproteinemia and hyperlipoproteinemia type Ib 5.