Cholesterol and CVD Flashcards
Why is cholesterol important?
It is a precursor for the synthesis of steroids
Basic component of all cell membranes
Lipoproteins are present in the plasma and transport lipids around the body.
What are Low-density lipoproteins?
Transport cholesterol around the body.
Where are LDLs produced?
In the liver.
What can too much LDLs lead to?
Cholesterol building up in arteries.
What are high-density lipoproteins?
Excess cholesterol is taken from body cells to the liver by HDL.
Prevents a high level of cholesterol accumulating the bloodstream.
Do HDLs contribute to atherosclerosis?
No because they are not taken into artery walls.
How do you maintain a healthy level of cholesterol?
Higher levels of HDLs than LDLs.
What are statins?
Drugs that reduce cholesterol levels.
How do statins work?
Inhibit enzymes essential for the synthesis of cholesterol by liver cells.
What is Familral Hypercholesterol Aemia?
Mutated gene that causes a decrease in the number of LDL receptors in the cell membrane.
they are unable to unload cholesterol meaning that high levels of LDLs accumulate in the arteries.
Glucagon.
Converts glycogen back to glucose.
Insulin.
Converts glucose to glycogen.
What is the purpose of adrenaline?
Released from adrenal glands when the body needs additional glucose supplies.
INHIBITS insulin secretion.
What is obesity?
Characterised by excess body fat in relation to lean body fat.
What are the causes of obesity?
Genetics; psychological; environmental, metabolic and dietary factors.
