The HDL Proteome Watch: Compilation of studies leads to new insights on HDL function

Purpose of review: High density lipoproteins (HDL) are a heterogeneous family of particles that contain distinct complements of proteins that define their function. Thus, it is important to accurately and sensitively identify proteins associated with HDL. Here we highlight the HDL Proteome Watch Database which tracks proteomics studies from different laboratories across the world. Recent findings: In 45 published reports, almost 1000 individual proteins have been detected in preparations of HDL. Of these, 251 have been identified in at least three different laboratories. The known functions of these consensus HDL proteins go well beyond traditionally recognized roles in lipid transport with many proteins pointing to HDL functions in innate immunity, inflammation, cell adhesion, hemostasis and protease regulation, and even vitamin and metal binding. The HDL proteome derived across multiple studies using various methodologies provides confidence in protein identifications that can offer interesting new insights into HDL function. We also point out significant issues that will require additional study going forward.