Lipids and lipoproteins play important roles in the cardiovascular system, influencing health and disease at both molecular and cellular levels. Understanding their functions and interactions enhances understanding of cardiovascular physiology and pathology. Lipids are a diverse group of hydrophobic molecules including fats, cholesterol, and phospholipids, and are vital components of cellular membranes, whilst also playing roles in energy storage, and signalling. One type of lipid, cholesterol, is essential for membrane integrity and is also a precursor for synthesis of steroid hormones and bile acids. Lipoproteins, complexes of lipids and proteins, facilitate the transport of lipids in the aqueous bloodstream. They are classified based on their density, reflecting their lipid-to-protein ratio. Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDLs) carry cholesterol from the liver to peripheral tissues. Elevated LDL levels are associated with atherosclerosis, as excess LDL can accumulate in arterial walls and contribute to atherosclerotic plaque formation. In contrast, High-Density Lipoproteins (HDL) transport cholesterol from peripheral tissues back to the liver for excretion, with higher HDL levels associated with reduced cardiovascular risk. Lipids and lipoproteins impact cardiovascular health through various cellular mechanisms. Cells acquire cholesterol through receptor-mediated endocytosis. LDL receptors on cell surfaces bind LDL particles, allowing internalization and cholesterol uptake. Cells regulate the number of these LDL receptors based on cholesterol needs. HDL particles collect excess cholesterol from peripheral tissues, particularly macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques, and transport it to the liver for excretion. This process reduces the risk of plaque formation. In atherosclerosis, LDL particles carrying cholesterol can become trapped within the arterial wall. Oxidized LDL is taken up by macrophages, forming foam cells that contribute to an inflammatory environment during atherosclerotic plaque development. Excess dietary fats are stored as lipid droplets within adipocytes (fat cells). These droplets can expand and contribute to obesity, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The balance between LDL and HDL levels is pivotal for cardiovascular health. An elevated LDL/HDL ratio is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, as it indicates a higher potential for plaque formation and atherosclerosis. Dyslipidaemia, an abnormal lipid profile, can result from genetic factors, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, and other factors. It is a key contributor to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes. Understanding lipids and lipoproteins is vital for managing cardiovascular risk. Adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management can improve lipid profiles and reduce such risk. Medications like statins target cholesterol synthesis, reducing LDL levels. Other drugs, like fibrates and niacin, can raise HDL levels or lower triglycerides. Emerging therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies targeting PCSK9 (a protein that regulates LDL receptor recycling), offer novel ways to lower LDL levels. We offer a large product catalogue of research tools for investigating lipids and lipoproteins, including Clusterin antibodies, Adiponectin antibodies, Cytochrome C antibodies, Adiponectin ELISA Kits, and Apolipoprotein A I ELISA Kits. Explore our full lipids and lipoproteins product range below and discover more, for less. Alternatively, you can explore our Lipid Metabolism, Fatty Acids, and Lipoproteins & Apolipoproteins product ranges.