The Endogenous Pathway: How Lipoproteins are Transported from the Liver to Cells

What is the pathway in which lipoproteins are transported from the liver to cells referred to?

The pathway in which lipoproteins are transported from the liver to cells is referred to as the Endogenous pathway.

The Endogenous Pathway Explained

The endogenous pathway involves the production of very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) in the liver, which are then released into the bloodstream. These lipoproteins contain a high proportion of triacylglycerols and cholesterol esters, which are important sources of energy for cells throughout the body.

As the VLDL particles circulate in the bloodstream, they are metabolized by enzymes and transformed into intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDL) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL). These particles are then taken up by cells throughout the body via receptor-mediated endocytosis.

The endogenous pathway plays a crucial role in providing cells with the necessary lipids and cholesterol for various cellular functions. Understanding this pathway helps in comprehending how lipoproteins are transported efficiently from the liver to cells.