Question

LCAT deficiency increases the following

• A. HDL
• B. LDL
• C. VLDL
• D. Chylomicron

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In biochemistry, Lipoprotein lipase (LCAT) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of lipids. It catalyzes the esterification of cholesterol in High-Density Lipoproteins (HDL). Deficiency in LCAT leads to impaired cholesterol esterification, affecting lipid transportation and metabolism. As a consequence of LCAT deficiency, there is an accumulation of unesterified cholesterol and phospholipids in the blood, leading to elevated levels of specific lipoproteins, most notably:

• HDL: The levels of HDL increase due to an accumulation of unesterified cholesterol within these lipoproteins. This occurs because LCAT is responsible for converting free cholesterol into cholesteryl esters within HDL, facilitating the maturation of HDL particles. When LCAT is deficient, HDL cannot mature properly, leading to increased numbers of immature HDL particles in the circulation.

Therefore, the correct answer is HDL.