lipoproteínas

Lipoproteínas are complex molecules composed of lipids and proteins that are essential for transporting fats through the bloodstream. Because fats are hydrophobic and blood is aqueous, lipids need to be packaged into these soluble carriers to travel throughout the body. Lipoproteins are classified based on their density, which is determined by the ratio of lipids to proteins. Denser lipoproteins have a higher proportion of protein and less fat.

The major classes of lipoproteins include chylomicrons, very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Chylomicrons are the largest and least dense, primarily carrying dietary fats from the intestines to the liver and peripheral tissues. VLDL are produced by the liver and transport endogenous triglycerides. As triglycerides are removed, VLDL transforms into IDL and then into LDL. LDL particles are rich in cholesterol and are often referred to as "bad cholesterol" because elevated levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, as they can deposit cholesterol in artery walls. HDL particles, known as "good cholesterol," are the densest and are produced by the liver and intestines. They play a crucial role in reverse cholesterol transport, picking up excess cholesterol from tissues and returning it to the liver for excretion. The balance of these lipoproteins is important for maintaining metabolic health and preventing atherosclerosis.