Lipoprotein particle (LP)

Lipoprotein particles are complex macromolecular assemblies composed of a hydrophobic core of triglycerides and cholesterol esters surrounded by a hydrophilic shell of phospholipids, free cholesterol, and specialized proteins called apolipoproteins. Their primary biological function is the transport of water-insoluble lipids through the aqueous environment of the bloodstream to various tissues for energy utilization, storage, or membrane synthesis. These particles are classified by their density and composition into several classes, including chylomicrons, VLDL, LDL, and HDL, each playing distinct roles in lipid metabolism. In clinical medicine, these particles are central targets for therapeutic intervention because elevated levels of pro-atherogenic particles (like LDL) are directly linked to the development of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Pharmacological strategies often focus on reducing the circulating concentration of these particles by inhibiting their synthesis, promoting their clearance via hepatic receptors, or physically sequestering their precursors in the digestive tract.

Other names

Lipid particlesPlasma lipoproteinsLipoprotein complexesChylomicronsVery-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)High-density lipoprotein (HDL)Intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL)

Sequestration of bile acids to increase LDL clearance, inhibition of hepatic synthesis, enhancement of receptor-mediated endocytosis, and modulation of lipid exchange between particles.