Lipoproteins and Cholesterol Flashcards
What is the main function of lipoproteins
Lipoproteins transport water-insoluble lipids around the body.
What components make up lipoproteins
They are made of cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids, and proteins
What are apolipoproteins, and what do they do?
Apolipoproteins stabilize and solubilize lipoproteins, and mediate receptor interactions for uptake and clearance.
Describe the structure of lipoproteins.
Lipoproteins have a surface coat with unesterified cholesterol, phospholipids, and apolipoproteins, and a lipid core with cholesterol esters and triglycerides.
What are chylomicrons, and what is their function
: Chylomicrons deliver triglycerides to the blood and liver after absorption in the lymphatic system
What are VLDLs, and what do they do
Very low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs) are made in the liver from chylomicron remnants and transport triglycerides.
What are ILDLs, and what is their role
Intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDLs) are byproducts of VLDLs and are precursors for LDLs.
What are LDLs, and why are they considered “bad cholesterol”?
Low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) are byproducts of VLDL/IDL that transport cholesterol and are linked to atherosclerosis.
What are HDLs, and why are they considered “good cholesterol”?
: High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) are made in the liver/intestines from VLDLs and chylomicrons and reverse cholesterol transport
What is the role of apolipoproteins in lipid transport?
They bind lipids to form lipoproteins, enabling solubility for blood/lymph transport
How is cholesterol produced, and what roles does it serve?
Cholesterol is a byproduct of glycolysis, a precursor for steroid hormones and vitamin D, and aids in bile production
How does cholesterol support vitamin metabolism?
Cholesterol facilitates the metabolism of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K
