Direct Single Test Analysis of LDL and All Lipoproteins

Of the risk factors associated with coronary artery disease, the most important is inheriteddyslipoproteinemia, including elevated LDL. We will develop a nationwide network of referrallaboratories for comprehensive lipoprotein testing based upon the VAP-II procedure. The goal is toprovide a single test for diagnosis of abnormalities in the different lipoprotein classes, a test that will becost effective enough for the physician to follow on a routine basis the effects of treatment on alllipoprotein classes. Commercial viability will depend upon the accuracy and reliability of a VAP-II testand its cost. Phase I will develop VAP-II to the point that it is a commercially viable product. Twospecific aims are proposed in phase I: I) complete the validation of the basic VAP-II system, and 2)develop the valve assembly and the meniscus detection components of a more automated VAP-II(AutoVAP-II). AutoVAP-II is of great important for developing a competitive cost structure for VAPII; aproperly designed AutoVAP-II can reduce technician time by one-half to one-third, the major costassociated with the procedure. Phase II will complete the development of the AutoVAP-II system; threespecific aims are proposed: 1) develop an automated centrifuge tube loading and puncturing system, 2)package the entire AutoVAP-II system into a single box, and 3) validate the finished product.