Introduction to Chemistry of Lipids

2.7. Very low density lipoproteins (VLDL)

Excess fatty acids and carbohydrates are converted to triacylglycerols in the liver and packaged with specific apolipoproteins into VLDL. 

• These lipoproteins are transported in the blood from the liver to muscle and adipose tissue, where activation of lipoprotein lipase by apoC-II causes the release of free fatty acids from the VLDL triglycerides

Biological importance

VLDL acts as a carrier molecule, transporting triglycerides and cholesterol from the liver to peripheral tissues throughout the body, essentially delivering energy-rich fats to cells that need them for storage or usage, thus playing a key role in lipid metabolism and overall energy balance.