The VLDL fraction primarily transports which substance?

• A. Cholesterol
• B. Chylomicron
• C. Triglyceride
• D. Phospholipid

Answer: (C)

Very-low-density lipoproteins are produced by the liver to deliver endogenous triglycerides to peripheral tissues. The defining feature of VLDL is its high triglyceride content, which makes it relatively low in density. As VLDL travels through the bloodstream, lipoprotein lipase in capillaries hydrolyzes its triglycerides, releasing fatty acids for uptake by adipose and muscle. What remains after extensive TG loss are smaller remnant particles (IDL and eventually LDL) that become richer in cholesterol esters. While other lipoproteins specialize in different cargos—chylomicrons carry dietary triglycerides from the intestine, and LDL/HDL carry cholesterol esters—the primary substance transported by VLDL is triglyceride. Phospholipids are part of the particle’s surface but not the main cargo.