The nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy technique that was developed by LipoScience (LipoScience, Inc., Raleigh, NC), exploits specific magnetic properties of lipoproteins. This technology does not require separation of lipoproteins; serum or plasma can be run through the NMR sensor probe and all lipoproteins can be measured directly and homogeneously.

The NMR platform works by subjecting the patient sample to a pulse of radio energy within a strong magnetic field. The energy that is given off by the lipids in the sample results is a signal that can be analyzed by the instrument to determine the number and size of lipoproteins present. Lipids associated with larger lipoproteins produce a signal that is distinct from those of smaller lipoproteins.

A computer algorithm developed by LipoScience deconvolutes the signals into lipoprotein subclasses and then quantifies the number of particles in each class.

NMR provides a useful and novel way to quantitate lipoprotein particles. However it is currently a proprietary technology and NMR analyzers are not yet readily-available for purchase and use in smaller clinical laboratories.