Which lipoprotein is the major carrier of cholesterol to peripheral tissue?

Which lipoprotein is the major carrier of cholesterol to peripheral tissue?

• A. LDL
• B. Chylomicrons
• C. VLDL
• D. HDL

Answer: (A)

Cholesterol transport is organized by distinct lipoproteins with specific roles. Chylomicrons carry dietary triglycerides from the intestine, delivering some cholesterol as remnants back to the liver. The liver then sends triglycerides and cholesterol into the bloodstream via VLDL, which delivers lipids to tissues and, as it’s further metabolized, becomes IDL and then LDL. LDL is the lipoprotein rich in cholesterol and is the primary vehicle that delivers cholesterol to peripheral tissues by binding to LDL receptors on cells and being taken up for membrane synthesis and steroid production. In contrast, HDL works to remove cholesterol from tissues and return it to the liver, a reverse transport process. Because of its high cholesterol content and receptor-mediated uptake by cells, LDL is the main carrier of cholesterol to peripheral tissues.

Cholesterol transport is organized by distinct lipoproteins with specific roles. Chylomicrons carry dietary triglycerides from the intestine, delivering some cholesterol as remnants back to the liver. The liver then sends triglycerides and cholesterol into the bloodstream via VLDL, which delivers lipids to tissues and, as it’s further metabolized, becomes IDL and then LDL. LDL is the lipoprotein rich in cholesterol and is the primary vehicle that delivers cholesterol to peripheral tissues by binding to LDL receptors on cells and being taken up for membrane synthesis and steroid production. In contrast, HDL works to remove cholesterol from tissues and return it to the liver, a reverse transport process. Because of its high cholesterol content and receptor-mediated uptake by cells, LDL is the main carrier of cholesterol to peripheral tissues.