High-density lipoproteins protective functions

High-density lipoprotein functions as a shuttle that moves cholesterol throughout the body. HDL binds and esterifies cholesterol released from the peripheral tissues and then transfers cholesteryl esters to the liver or to tissues that use cholesterol to synthesize steroid hormones. A specific receptor mediates the docking of the HDL to these tissues. The exact nature of the protective effect of HDL levels is not known however, a possible mechanism is discussed in Section... 

The relationship between the plasma lipoprotein profile and clinical appearance of atherosclerotic heart disease is now well established. During the latest decade increased interest has focused on the differential effect of various lipoprotein classes specifically the protective function of high-density lipoproteins... 

Their capacity to decrease serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and, thus, in protecting against CVD, has led to the development of functional foods enriched with plant sterols. At present, several functional products, such as spreadable fats, yoghurts, and milk, with free phytosterols or phytosteryl fatty acid esters or phytostanyl fatty acid esters added at high levels, are available in the market, especially in several European countries. ... 

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