Very-low-density lipoprotein
Very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)
Very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), pronounced as /ˌvɛriːˌloʊˈdɛnsɪtiːˌlaɪpəˈproʊtiːn/, is a type of lipoprotein made by the liver. VLDL is one of the five major groups of lipoproteins (chylomicrons, VLDL, LDL, IDL, and HDL) that enable fats and cholesterol to move within the water-based solution of the bloodstream.
Etymology
The term "Very-low-density lipoprotein" is derived from its low density compared to other types of lipoproteins. The term "lipoprotein" is a combination of "lipid" and "protein", referring to its composition of both fat (or lipid) and protein molecules.
Function
VLDL is responsible for transporting triglycerides, a type of fat, from the liver to tissues in the body. It is converted in the bloodstream to low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as "bad cholesterol".
Related Terms
- Cholesterol: A waxy, fat-like substance that's found in all the cells in your body.
- Lipoprotein: Any of a group of soluble proteins that combine with and transport fat or other lipids in the blood plasma.
- Triglycerides: A type of fat (lipid) found in your blood.
- Low-density lipoprotein: Often called the "bad" cholesterol, is one of the types of cholesterol in your body.
- High-density lipoprotein: Often referred to as "good" cholesterol, is another type of cholesterol in your body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Very-low-density lipoprotein
- Wikipedia's article - Very-low-density lipoprotein
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