An increase in LDL causes deposition of cholesterol in the blood vessels, termed as Atherosclerosis. This process is harmful as it can occlude the lumen of the blood vessels especially arteries of the heart leading to a compromise of the cardiac circulation. read more
Furthermore, HDL can inhibit the oxidative modification of LDL and thereby reduce the atherogenic potential of LDL. Hence, low HDL levels may aggravate atherosclerosis because of blunted anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant actions. After reaching the intima, leukocytes (macrophages) take up modified lipoproteins. read more
LDL as a Cause of Atherosclerosis Gerald H. Tomkin* and Daphne Owens Beacon Hospital and Trinity College Dublin 2, Ireland Abstract: The low density lipoprotein particle is the major transporter of cholesterol around the body and has been shown to be a strong independent risk factor for atherosclerotic events. read more