Very Low Density Lipoproteins (VLDL)

General Information

VLDL (very low density lipoprotein) Synthesized in the liver. Circulating free fatty acids in the liver produce triglycerides that bind to apoproteins and cholesterol and then pass into the bloodstream as VLDL. Their main function is to transport triglycerides synthesized in the liver to fat and muscle cells. They act as Precursors of LDL (low density lipoproteins). LDL Contains 60-70% of total serum cholesterol, formed as a result of the breakdown of VLDL. The major LDL protein is apoprotein B (apo-B). Although the half-life of LDL is longer (3-4 days) than that of its predecessor or VLDL, it is more abundant in circulation than VLDL. LDL cholesterol is involved in the transport of cholesterol to tissues, primarily the arterial system, which explains the high risk of developing atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease in patients with elevated levels of this lipoprotein. Thus, the determination of LDL is a specific test to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease and to determine therapeutic procedures.