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low-density lipoprotein

low-den·si·ty lipoprotein 'lō-'den(t)-sət-ē- n LDL

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(LDL)

see lipoprotein

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(LDL) a class of lipoproteins responsible for transport of cholesterol to extrahepatic tissues. It is formed in the circulation when very-low-density lipoproteins are degraded first to intermediate-density lipoproteins and then to LDL by the gain and loss of specific apolipoproteins and the loss of most of their triglycerides. It is taken up and catabolized by both the liver and extrahepatic tissues by specific receptor-mediated endocytosis (see LDL receptors, under receptor). Called also (referring to its electrophoretic mobility) β-l.

Medical dictionary. 2011.