Lipoprotein Classification

By density

Lipoproteins may be classified as follows, listed from larger and less dense ones to smaller and denser ones. Lipoproteins are larger and less dense, if they consist of more fat than of protein.

• Chylomicrons carry triglycerides (fat) from the intestines to the liver, skeletal muscle, and to adipose tissue.
• Very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) carry (newly synthesised) triacylglycerol from the liver to adipose tissue.
• Intermediate density lipoproteins (IDL) are intermediate between VLDL and LDL. They are not usually detectable in the blood.
• Low density lipoproteins (LDL) carry cholesterol from the liver to cells of the body. LDLs are sometimes referred to as the "bad cholesterol" lipoprotein.
• High density lipoproteins (HDL) collect cholesterol from the body's tissues, and bring it back to the liver. HDLs are sometimes referred to as the "good cholesterol" lipoprotein.

Alpha and beta

It is also possible to classify lipoproteins as "alpha" and "beta", according to the classification of proteins in serum protein electrophoresis. This terminology is sometimes used in describing lipid disorders such as Abetalipoproteinemia.

Lipoprotein(a)

Lipoprotein(a) - Lp(a), Cardiology diagnostic tests

< 14 mg/dL : Normal

14-19 mg/dL : ?

> 19 mg/dL : High risk

How to lower: aerobic exercise, niacin, aspirin, guggulipid.

Further Reading

• What are Lipoproteins?
• Lipoprotein Metabolism

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