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LDL Cholesterol

Cholesterol content of low-density lipoproteins, the major atherogenic lipoprotein and the primary lipid target of cardiovascular prevention guidelines.

Also: LDL-C, Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol

LDL particles deliver cholesterol to peripheral tissues via the LDL receptor pathway. Elevated LDL-C is causally linked to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease via decades of Mendelian, epidemiologic, and randomized evidence (the cholesterol hypothesis). Dietary saturated fat raises LDL-C by downregulating hepatic LDL receptors; soluble fiber, plant sterols, and PUFAs lower it. Statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, and bempedoic acid lower LDL-C pharmacologically.

How each textbook covers it

  • duyff-complete-food-and-nutrition-guide-5e

  • Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 12th ed.Ch 67: Coronary Heart Disease and Lipoprotein Disorders

    LDL particles deliver cholesterol to peripheral tissues via the LDL receptor pathway. Elevated LDL-C is causally linked to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease via decades of Mendelian, epidemiologic, and randomized evidence (the cholesterol hypothesis). Dietary saturated fat raises LDL-C by downregulating hepatic LDL receptors; soluble fiber, plant sterols, and PUFAs lower it. Statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, and bempedoic acid lower LDL-C pharmacologically.

Related terms

ApoE, Atherosclerosis, HDL, Saturated fat