[Plasma lipoproteins and apolipoproteins]

Abstract

In a survey the plasmalipoproteins LDL, VLDL and HDL are characterized and their functions demonstrated. Metabolically they are connected together through the IDL. Their clinical importance lies in the disturbances of the lipoprotein metabolism, which are significant for hyperlipoproteinaemia and arteriosclerotic diseases. Atypical plasmalipoproteins are LP(a), pre-beta-1-lipoprotein and sinking-pre-beta-lipoproteins. The LP-X is of interest for the differential diagnosis of jaundice. The carrier proteins of the plasmalipoproteins, the apolipoproteins, are Apo A, Apo B, Apo C, Apo D, and Apo E. They are differently structured. Their concentration in the individual plasmalipoproteins are also responsible for their function in normal and pathological lipid metabolism.