Myeloperoxidase (MPO)

Inflammatory

Cardiovascular Inflammation

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an enzyme released by neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, during vascular inflammation. It serves as a marker of neutrophil activation and, in the arteries, of plaque that is inflamed and potentially unstable. A longevity practice tracks MPO to gauge the vulnerability of atherosclerotic plaque rather than just its presence.

What It Measures

Enzyme released by neutrophils; marker of vascular inflammation and plaque vulnerability (unstable plaque)

Optimal vs. Lab Range

Longevity Optimal

<350 pmol/L

Target range for optimal health and longevity based on research.

Standard Lab

<420 pmol/L

Population-based reference range from standard labs.

Why It Matters

Elevated MPO signals active neutrophil-driven vascular inflammation and is associated with unstable coronary plaque and higher acute coronary syndrome risk. This focus on plaque vulnerability is clinically important because it is the rupture of unstable plaque, not merely its size, that precipitates heart attacks. In a preventive setting, a high MPO can prompt closer evaluation before an event occurs, supporting longer cardiovascular healthspan. It is best read alongside hs-CRP, Lp-PLA2, ApoB, and a coronary calcium score for a fuller picture of arterial risk. Lower values are generally favorable.

When Low

Generally favorable when low

When High

Unstable coronary plaque, acute coronary syndrome risk, vascular inflammation, neutrophil activation

How to Optimize

Reducing vascular inflammation is the core aim, achieved through anti-inflammatory habits such as a whole-food diet, regular exercise, sleep, and not smoking. Antioxidant support may help counter the oxidative activity associated with neutrophil-driven inflammation. When atherosclerosis and lipid risk are present, statin therapy is physician-directed and can lower the inflammatory burden this marker reflects. Retesting helps confirm the trend is improving alongside other cardiovascular markers. Targets and treatment are individualized with your physician; this content is educational and not a substitute for medical advice.

Key Interventions & Linked Compounds

Moderate evidence

Key Interventions

Anti-inflammatory protocols

statin (clinical)

antioxidant support

Linked Compounds & Supplements

NAC

Glutathione

CoQ10

Omega-3

Curated from clinical literature. Individual results vary; consult a qualified clinician before changing a protocol.

Ordering Notes

Specimen

Serum or plasma (venous draw)

Patient prep

No fasting required. Maintain usual diet and medications unless advised.

Recommended cadence

Annual

Reporting unit

Confirm with the performing lab — units vary by region.

Pre-analytic notes

Standardize draw time of day, hydration, and recent exercise. Note any acute illness, supplements, or hormonal therapies on the requisition.

Recommended Follow-Up Actions

1
Confirm the result is reliable
Repeat abnormal values before acting — preferably from the same lab, same time of day, and under consistent prep. Rule out acute illness, recent intense exercise, or medication effects that can shift Myeloperoxidase (MPO).
2
Compare against optimal, not just lab range
Use the optimal window above as the target. Lab "normal" is built from the general population and often misses early dysfunction.
3
Pair with related markers
Order a complementary panel covering metabolic, inflammatory, and hormonal context to interpret this marker properly.
4
Discuss interventions with a clinician
Use the interpretation guidance above to frame the conversation. Bring trends, not just one datapoint, to your visit.
5
Re-test on a defined cadence
If a change is implemented, re-measure in 8–12 weeks for fast-moving markers, or 3–6 months for slower ones, to confirm response before escalating.