HDL and LDL/VLDL: Activity Assays

Cholesterol concentrations in High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and Low-Density (LDL)/Very-Low-Density (VLDL) Lipoproteins are strong predictors for coronary heart disease. Functional HDL offers protection by removing cholesterol from cells and atheroma. Higher concentrations of LDL and lower concentrations of functional HDL are strongly associated with cardiovascular disease due to higher risk of atherosclerosis. The balances between high- and low-density lipoproteins are solely genetically determined, but can be changed by medications, food choices and other factors.