Understanding lipoproteins as transporters of cholesterol and other lipids

Abstract

A clear picture of lipoprotein metabolism is essential for understanding the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Many students are taught that low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol is "bad" and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol is "good." This misconception leads to students thinking that lipoproteins are types of cholesterol rather than transporters of lipid. Describing lipoproteins as particles that are composed of lipid and protein and illustrating the variation in particle density that is determined by the constantly changing lipid and protein composition clarifies the metabolic pathway and physiological function of lipoproteins as lipid transporters. Such a description will also suggest the critical role played by apolipoproteins in lipid transport. The clarification of lipoproteins as particles that change density will help students understand the nomenclature used to classify lipoproteins as well.

The effect of sauna bathing on lipid profile in young, physically active, male subjects

“…A reduced level of HDL-C fraction represents an independent risk factor, which is negatively correlated with cardiovascular diseases [20]. An essential problem to be solved is finding a method for reduction of LDL fraction and increasing HDL-C fraction which is responsible for the reverse cholesterol transport -a process of transport of free cholesterol from peripheral and adipose tissues mainly to the liver [21]. An important role of HDL-C as an anti-atherosclerotic agent is to prevent oxidative modification of LDL-C fraction, which is an initial element of formation of the atherosclerotic plaque as well as its effect on the endothelial tissue, which improves its function through stimulation of production of nitric oxide and inhibiting apoptosis of the endothelial cells [22,23].…”

Effect of Persea americana (avocado) fruit extract on the level of expression of adiponectin and PPAR-γ in rats subjected to experimental hyperlipidemia and obesity

“…HLD is characterized by elevated levels of cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and decreased level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in blood [2]. HLD is caused by specific genetic abnormalities or altered lipid and lipoprotein metabolisms [3]. Obesity is a medical condition in which excess of fat accumulates in the body to the extent to cause adverse effects on health leading to reduced life expectancy.…”

Hepatic Protection by Noni Fruit Juice Against CCl4-Induced Chronic Liver Damage in Female SD Rats

“…The CCl 4 metabolite, trichloromethyl free radical (·CCl 3 ), initiates lipid peroxidation in cell membranes and leads to liver-injury processes such as steatosis [11,12]. It is known that the liver plays a pivotal role in the detoxification and regulation of lipoprotein transport in plasma [13,14]. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) appear to be particularly important in the lipoprotein transport [15].…”