ApoB (Apolipoprotein B)

What is ApoB?

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is a protein that wraps around LDL and other atherogenic (plaque-forming) particles. Each LDL, VLDL, and Lp(a) particle contains exactly one ApoB molecule, making it a direct count of all particles that can contribute to arterial plaque.

Many cardiologists consider ApoB superior to LDL cholesterol because it measures particle number rather than cholesterol content — and it's the particles themselves that penetrate artery walls.

Normal Ranges

Level	Category
Below 90 mg/dL	Optimal
90–110 mg/dL	Borderline
Above 110 mg/dL	Elevated

For high-risk patients, targets below 65 mg/dL are often recommended.

Why It Matters

Better Risk Prediction

Two people with identical LDL cholesterol can have very different ApoB levels — and different cardiovascular risk. The person with more particles (higher ApoB) has higher risk.

Discordance

When LDL and ApoB don't match (discordance), ApoB better predicts outcomes. This is common in people with metabolic syndrome or diabetes.

ApoB vs. LDL

LDL cholesterol measures the cholesterol content carried by LDL particles
ApoB counts the number of atherogenic particles

Small, dense LDL particles carry less cholesterol each but may be more dangerous — ApoB captures this better.

How to Lower ApoB

Same strategies as lowering LDL:

Reduce saturated fat
Increase fiber
Exercise regularly
Statins and other lipid-lowering medications