Post-prandial VLDL subfraction metabolism in normal and obese subjects

The metabolic behaviour of very low density lipoprotein subfractions Sf 60-400 (VLDL1) and Sf 20-60 (VLDL2) was studied in five normal weight and five obese subjects following an overnight fast and after the consumption of a mixed meal. The VLDL1 showed increases in triacylglycerol (TG) and cholesterol concentrations after the meal, while the VLDL2 response was much smaller. The obese individuals had higher concentrations of TG, apolipoprotein B and cholesterol in both VLDL subfractions, but when the TG and cholesterol were expressed in terms of their content per VLDL particle, there was no difference between control and obese subjects. The abnormality in the obese group was identified as an elevated number of VLDL particles, of normal composition, which may predispose these individuals to coronary heart disease.