Plasma lipid

Plasma lipids refer collectively to a broad group of hydrophobic or amphipathic small molecules circulating in the blood. Major types include triglycerides, cholesterol, cholesteryl esters, and phospholipids, which are transported as part of lipoprotein particles such as chylomicrons, VLDL, LDL, and HDL. These molecules play essential roles in energy storage, membrane structure, and signaling. While plasma lipid levels (particularly elevated LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipoprotein(a)) are used as biomarkers and treatment targets in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, the term "plasma lipid" is not a specific molecule, receptor, or gene, but rather encompasses a diverse set of chemical entities and complexes. In clinical and research contexts, therapeutic focus is typically on the enzymes, transporters, receptors, or regulatory proteins that control lipid levels—such as HMG-CoA reductase, PCSK9, or apolipoproteins—rather than on "plasma lipids" as a singular molecular target. Thus, "plasma lipid" is not considered a canonical therapeutic target, but instead represents a physiological measurement or outcome of interest.

Other names

Blood lipidCirculating lipidSerum lipidPlasma lipoprotein

Inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis (e.g., statins, bempedoic acid), Inhibition of cholesterol absorption (e.g., ezetimibe), Inhibition of PCSK9 (e.g., evolocumab, inclisiran), Inhibition of lipoprotein(a) synthesis (e.g., olpasiran), Inhibition of triglyceride synthesis or release (e.g., volanesorsen)