A comprehensive understanding of HDL-associated apolipoproteins: future potential biomarker in sepsis

INTRODUCTION: Sepsis, a life-threatening condition characterized by dysregulated host immune and metabolic responses to infection, is associated with high mortality, making accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment crucial. Sepsis often induces a notable reduction in serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. As the fundamental structural and functional components of HDL, apolipoproteins play pivotal roles in mediating the function of HDL. Therefore, these apolipoproteins can serve as potential biomarkers in sepsis. AREAS COVERED: This review systematically synthesizes current evidence on the dynamic expression profiles of these apolipoproteins in sepsis, highlighting the relation of their single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with sepsis and clinical relevance in diagnosis and prognosis. Furthermore, it also summarizes the underlying mechanisms by which these apolipoproteins are involved in the progression of sepsis. EXPERT OPINION: The changes in the levels of HDL-associated apolipoproteins can characterize the progression of sepsis and the type of infecting bacteria, and provide therapeutic targets for the treatment of sepsis. Therefore, the comprehensive understanding of their integrated effects holds promise for developing precision interventions to improve clinical outcomes of sepsis.