very-low-density lipoprotein particle

Definition

Target type: cellularcomponent

A triglyceride-rich lipoprotein particle that is typically composed of APOB100, APOE and APOCs and has a density of about 1.006 g/ml and a diameter of between 20-80 nm. It is found in blood and transports endogenous products (newly synthesized cholesterol and triglycerides) from the liver. [GOC:BHF, GOC:expert_pt, GOC:mah, GOC:rl]

Very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles are complex, spherical structures composed of lipids and proteins, with a core of triglycerides and cholesteryl esters surrounded by a phospholipid monolayer. The phospholipid monolayer is studded with apolipoproteins, which are protein molecules that play a role in the metabolism and transport of lipids. The specific cellular components of a VLDL particle include:

- **Triglycerides:** These are the primary lipid component of VLDL, accounting for about 60% of its mass. They are synthesized in the liver and packaged into VLDL particles for transport to peripheral tissues.
- **Cholesteryl esters:** These are another type of lipid found in VLDL, accounting for about 10% of its mass. They are synthesized in the liver and packaged into VLDL particles for transport to peripheral tissues.
- **Phospholipids:** These are amphipathic molecules that form the monolayer surrounding the VLDL particle. They are important for the structure and stability of the particle.
- **Apolipoproteins:** These are proteins that are embedded in the phospholipid monolayer of the VLDL particle. The primary apolipoproteins associated with VLDL are ApoB-100, ApoC-II, and ApoE.
- **ApoB-100:** This is the largest apolipoprotein and is essential for the assembly and secretion of VLDL from the liver. It serves as a ligand for lipoprotein lipase (LPL), which hydrolyzes triglycerides in VLDL.
- **ApoC-II:** This apolipoprotein activates LPL, which is responsible for hydrolyzing triglycerides in VLDL.
- **ApoE:** This apolipoprotein mediates the uptake of VLDL remnants by the liver.

The specific proportions of each component can vary depending on the individual and their dietary and lifestyle habits. VLDL particles are essential for the transport of triglycerides and cholesterol from the liver to peripheral tissues.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)