Types and functions of plasma lipoproteins

Plasma lipoproteins are integral and significant for energy in the body. It is also a part of cholesterol metabolism. Certain disorders concerning lipoprotein metabolism can result in atherosclerotic vascular disease. Genetic factors play a huge role in influencing the metabolism process that involves lipoproteins. There are four types of plasma lipoproteins such as chylomicrons, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). The current study has focused on the two types of lipoproteins that are high-density lipoproteins (HDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL). HDL is also called good because it carries cholesterol to other parts of the body.

Types of Plasma Lipoproteins

Plasma lipoproteins are classified into the four major classes of lipoproteins, each type of lipoprotein has its characteristics for instance, as chylomicrons, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). The current study has focused on the two types of lipoproteins that are high-density lipoproteins (HDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL). The most distinct feature of the lipoproteins is that each lipoprotein has its own set of proteins and lipids. The composition of protein and lipid can be shown in the density of each separate lipoprotein. The density of the lipoproteins helps in better understanding the type and attributes of characteristics. Measurement of density provides the 

Function of Plasma Lipoproteins 

The basic function of the lipoproteins is the delivery and smooth transportation of triacylglycerol, fatty acids and cholesterol from the cells to target cells in the organs of the body. Lipoproteins are combined with molecules and surfaces are charged with molecules that interact together for the transportation of lipoproteins. 

• The main function of the different types of lipoproteins is breaking down the fat in a smaller form and forming triglycerides. 
• It is carried from various organs of the body to the blood by smaller molecules that are called lipoproteins. In the outer shell, lipoproteins determine the functional identity of particles of lipoproteins. 
• The interaction of apolipoproteins with enzymes together with blood determines whether triacylglycerols and cholesterol are either removed or added.

High-Density Plasma Lipoproteins

High-density plasma lipoproteins are considered to be beneficial by scientists and doctors as compared to any other type of lipoproteins due to its functional attributes. It is considered good because it helps in alienating the bad or unnecessary cholesterol out of the body. It protects the heart from coronary heart diseases and strokes. 

• The main function of the HDL is to carry away the cholesterol from the arteries and send it back to the liver. When LDL is broken, removal of such cholesterol is necessary for smooth functioning of the body. 

• HDL does not fully alienate and remove the LDL cholesterol. LDL carries one-fourth of the cholesterol in the blood.

Low-Density Plasma Lipoproteins

In comparison to the high-density lipoproteins, LDL is not considered good but most doctors believe it to be bad based on cholesterol. It can be said that its contribution is more in building the fatty walls in the arteries. It increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attacks. LDL is derived from IDL and VLDL in the plasma. It contains large amounts of cholesterol and also cholesterol esters. 

• The principal role of the LDL is to deliver two forms of cholesterol from the blood to peripheral tissues. It is more concerned with the white blood cells. 
• Two-thirds of the cholesteryl; esters are found in the plasma of the blood (blood that does not include red or white cells).

Conclusion 

The plasma lipoproteins are important for the smooth functioning of the metabolism. It helps the transportation of proteins and lipids from blood vessels to the different organs of the body. There are four major types of lipoproteins. However, two important lipoproteins have been discussed in the current study that are HDL and LDL. The main function of the HDL is to carry cholesterol away from the arteries and prevent cardiovascular disease. However, LDL sends the cholesterol to peripheral tissue. Lipoproteins are significant in determining the good condition of metabolism. It overall ensures the smooth flow of protein and lipids in all the cells of the body.