Knowra Low-density lipoprotein Low-density lipoprotein Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a cholesterol-carrying particle in blood that transports cholesterol to tissues. When LDL particles enter and persist in artery walls, they can promote atherosclerotic plaque formation.
Apolipoprotein B : A structural protein on LDL and related lipoproteins that enables receptor binding and particle uptake. Each LDL particle carries one apoB-100 molecule, which helps determine its interaction with LDL receptors.
Lipoprotein : A particle of lipids and proteins that transports water-insoluble fats through blood and other body fluids. LDL is one member of this transport-particle family.
LDL cholesterol : The mass concentration of cholesterol carried within LDL particles in a blood sample. This commonly measured quantity estimates LDL-associated cholesterol, not the number of particles.
High-density lipoprotein : A lipoprotein class involved in cholesterol transport and other functions, with density greater than LDL. Its name and typical roles are often contrasted with LDL, though the relationship is not a simple good-versus-bad divide.
LDL particle number : An estimate of the concentration of LDL particles in blood, distinct from the amount of cholesterol they carry. Particle number can differ from LDL cholesterol when particles vary in cholesterol content.
LDL receptor : A cell-surface protein that binds LDL and mediates its uptake into cells. LDL receptor activity removes LDL particles from circulation, especially through the liver.
Cholesterol : A sterol used in cell membranes and as a precursor for steroid hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D. LDL carries cholesterol, but the particle and its cargo are not the same thing.
Apolipoprotein B test : A blood test measuring apolipoprotein B, used to estimate the number of atherogenic lipoprotein particles. ApoB can reveal particle burden when LDL cholesterol does not fully represent it.
Very-low-density lipoprotein : A liver-produced lipoprotein that transports triglycerides and is metabolically converted into remnants and LDL. VLDL is a triglyceride-rich precursor in the pathway that generates LDL.
Small dense LDL : A subclass of LDL particles that are smaller and denser than average LDL particles. Its independent predictive value beyond overall apoB-containing particle burden remains a subject of study.
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