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Isolation and Analysis of Plasma Lipoproteins by Ultracentrifugation
Published on: January 28, 2021
Lipoprotein isolation and analysis from serum by preparative ultracentrifugation
K M Wasan1, S M Cassidy, A L Kennedy
1Division of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Methods in Molecular Medicine
|February 23, 2011
Summary
Plasma lipoproteins are complex particles transporting fats and cholesterol throughout the body. These essential molecules also play roles in tissue repair and immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- Plasma lipoproteins are essential for transporting hydrophobic nutrients like triacylglycerols (TGs) and cholesteryl esters (CEs).
- These macromolecular aggregates are synthesized and absorbed in the liver and intestines.
- Lipoproteins facilitate the delivery of these vital nutrients to peripheral tissues for energy or storage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the fundamental role of plasma lipoproteins in nutrient transport.
- To highlight the involvement of lipoproteins in broader biological functions beyond lipid transport.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review of existing literature.
- Analysis of established biochemical and physiological pathways.
Main Results:
- Plasma lipoproteins are heterogeneous aggregates of lipids and proteins.
- They are critical for transporting water-insoluble nutrients (TGs and CEs) via vascular and extravascular fluids.
- Lipoproteins also participate in crucial processes such as coagulation, tissue repair, and immune reactions.
Conclusions:
- Plasma lipoproteins are central to lipid and cholesterol homeostasis.
- Their functions extend to critical physiological processes, including immune response and tissue maintenance.
