Triglycerides lipid subfractions characterise triglyceride content across different lipoprotein classes (VLDL, IDL, LDL, HDL), providing mechanistic insight into how triglyceride burden is packaged. Standard triglyceride testing measures total circulating triglycerides but does not reveal which particles carry them.
FAQs
Why measure subfractions when total triglycerides exist?
Total triglycerides show how much; subfractions show where. Knowing which particles carry excess triglycerides helps target the specific pathway driving dyslipidaemia.
Which lipoprotein carries most triglycerides?
VLDL carries the highest triglyceride concentration. In atherogenic dyslipidaemia, large VLDL triglycerides drive downstream formation of small dense LDL.
Are triglyceride subfractions routine?
No. They are part of specialised advanced lipid testing, most useful for detailed metabolic characterisation in complex cases.
Do fibrates specifically target VLDL triglycerides?
Yes. Fibrates reduce VLDL production and enhance clearance through lipoprotein lipase activation, targeting large VLDL triglyceride most effectively.
