Lecture on Plasma Lipoproteins and Lipid Transport

These flashcards cover key concepts related to plasma lipoproteins, their classes, functions, and roles in lipid transport and cardiovascular health.

What are the main aims of studying plasma lipoproteins?

To understand pathways involved in lipid transport in the bloodstream.

What are the classes of plasma lipoproteins?

Chylomicrons, VLDL, LDL, and HDL.

What is the primary function of chylomicrons?

Transport dietary lipids from the intestine to peripheral tissues.

What are the main components of chylomicrons?

Triglycerides (85-92%), phospholipids (6-12%), cholesterol (1-3%), and protein (1-2%).

What role do apolipoproteins have in lipoproteins?

They regulate uptake via receptors and activate or inhibit enzymes involved in lipoprotein metabolism.

What do HDL particles do in cholesterol transport?

They pick up excess cholesterol and deliver it to the liver for excretion.

How do high levels of LDL affect heart disease risk?

High levels of LDL are a positive risk factor for coronary heart disease.

What is the role of lipoprotein lipase (LPL)?

It hydrolyzes triacylglycerols in chylomicrons and VLDL, releasing fatty acids for energy or storage.

What is the characteristic of HDL in relation to cholesterol?

HDL is responsible for reverse cholesterol transport, taking excess cholesterol back to the liver.

What is Tangier disease?

A rare condition characterized by abnormally low HDL cholesterol and cholesterol accumulation in tissues.