Colchicine’s Effects on Lipoprotein Particle Concentrations in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Background Colchicine has received renewed interest for its potential beneficial effects in secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. This has presumed to be primarily due to its anti-inflammatory effects; however, limited data exist regarding colchicine’s impact on other cardiovascular risk factors. Objective To examine if colchicine’s anti-inflammatory actions would lead to reduced circulating concentrations of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in metabolically unhealthy individuals. We also examined if colchicine would improve concentrations of other atherogenic lipoprotein subfractions. Methods This is a secondary analysis of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study in which 40 adults with metabolic syndrome were randomized to colchicine 0.6mg or placebo twice daily for three months. Blood samples were collected in the fasted state. OxLDL was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to measure other lipoprotein particle subfraction concentrations. Results As compared with placebo, colchicine reduced markers of inflammation, including C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and GlycA (p’s 0.05). Conclusion Although colchicine may have benefit in secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease in at-risk individuals, we found no evidence that these effects are due to improvements in circulating atherogenic lipoprotein particle concentrations. Further studies are needed to confirm whether colchicine increases circulating oxLDL and small LDL levels in adults with metabolic syndrome. If true, additional research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this association.