Lecture 13 (Part 1) - Metabolism of Chylomicrons Flashcards
How are chylomicrons formed in the body, and where does this process primarily occur?
Chylomicrons are formed in the small intestine after a meal, where all lipids are assembled.
Describe the pathway of chylomicrons after their formation in the small intestine.
Chylomicrons travel through lymphatics and into the bloodstream.
What role does HDL play in the metabolism of chylomicrons?
HDL donates ApoCII and ApoE to chylomicrons, facilitating their interaction with cells.
Which enzyme is crucial for the breakdown of triglycerides (TGs) carried by chylomicrons, and where is it found?
Lipoprotein lipase (LPL), found in the capillaries of non-hepatic tissues, breaks down TGs into fatty acids and glycerol.
What is the function of ApoCII in the interaction between chylomicrons and LPL?
ApoCII interacts with LPL, anchoring the chylomicron to tissues and activating lipolysis.
What happens to the fatty acids released during lipolysis in peripheral tissues?
Fatty acids are used as a source of energy by tissues such as the heart and muscles or stored in adipose tissue.
What occurs to glycerol after it is released during lipolysis?
Glycerol travels to the liver where it undergoes gluconeogenesis, converting into glucose.
After delivering their triglyceride content to tissues, what are chylomicrons called?
Chylomicron remnants.
How do chylomicron remnants interact with HDL?
Chylomicron remnants interact with HDL to return ApoA and ApoCII.
What is the main function of chylomicrons in the body?
The main function of chylomicrons is to deliver dietary triglycerides to peripheral tissues by interacting with HDL, acquiring ApoCII and ApoE.
