Which type of lipoprotein is responsible for carrying triglycerides to tissues?

Prepare for the Texas AandM University Nutrition for Health and Health Care exam. Our study materials feature flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations to enhance your understanding and increase your success rate.

VLDL, or very-low-density lipoprotein, is primarily responsible for carrying triglycerides from the liver to peripheral tissues. It is produced in the liver and plays a crucial role in transporting triglycerides, which are a major form of fat used by the body for energy. After VLDL is released into the bloodstream, it gradually loses its triglyceride content through interactions with enzymes and other tissues, ultimately transforming into LDL (low-density lipoprotein) as it becomes more cholesterol-rich.

While chylomicrons also carry triglycerides, their primary function is to transport dietary fats absorbed from the intestines rather than triglycerides synthesized in the liver, which distinguishes them from VLDL. LDL is mainly associated with cholesterol transport, and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is involved in the reverse transport of cholesterol back to the liver. Thus, VLDL is the most appropriate answer for the question regarding the carrier of triglycerides to tissues.

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