Kolesteroliestereit

Kolesteroliestereit, also known as cholesterol esters, are a type of lipid. They are formed when cholesterol's hydroxyl group reacts with a fatty acid, creating an ester linkage. This process is called esterification. Cholesterol esters are a major component of various biological structures and play important roles in metabolism and transport within the body.

In the bloodstream, cholesterol esters are primarily transported within lipoproteins, such as low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to tissues, while HDL returns excess cholesterol from tissues to the liver for processing and excretion. The esterification of cholesterol within these lipoproteins is crucial for their stability and efficient transport.

Cholesterol esters are also stored in cells, particularly in tissues like the adrenal glands, gonads, and adipose tissue. In these locations, they serve as a readily available reservoir of cholesterol that can be mobilized when needed for various cellular functions, including hormone synthesis and membrane repair.

The hydrolysis of cholesterol esters, the reverse reaction of esterification, releases free cholesterol and fatty acids. This process is catalyzed by enzymes called cholesterol esterases. This hydrolysis is essential for making stored cholesterol available for cellular use or for transport by HDL. Imbalances in cholesterol ester levels and metabolism are associated with various health conditions, including atherosclerosis.