Serum amyloid A (SAA) is an acute-phase protein that circulates at low levels bound to high-density lipoproteins (HDL). During inflammation, its concentration rises sharply, altering HDL composition, lipid transport, and cholesterol metabolism. These changes contribute to vascular pathology, particularly atherosclerosis. Owing to its multifunctional role, SAA has gained attention as a potential biomarker in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, although its role in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) remains insufficiently clarified.
