Examinations
Examinations
General Information:
Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) composed of glycerol, which is an alcohol ester, and three fatty acids. Their primary function is to serve as an energy substrate. Endogenous triglycerides are synthesized in the liver and adipose tissue, while triglycerides from dietary sources are re-synthesized in the small intestine from digested monoglycerides and fatty acids.
Triglycerides from the small intestine are transported via lymphatic vessels in the form of chylomicrons (a transport form of lipids). In the bloodstream, triglycerides are broken down by the enzyme lipoprotein lipase in the vascular endothelium. The resulting fatty acids are either stored in adipose tissue as triglycerides or used by muscles and other tissues as an energy source.
When stored triglycerides are needed for energy, they are hydrolyzed in adipose tissue under the influence of glucagon-activated lipase. Released fatty acids enter the bloodstream and are utilized as energy substrates.
The levels of triglycerides in the blood fluctuate throughout the day, depending on food intake. Levels rise 30–60 minutes after eating, causing plasma to become turbid due to the presence of chylomicrons (lipemia), and return to baseline within 12 hours.
Transport of Triglycerides:
Triglycerides are water-insoluble and are transported in the blood as lipoprotein complexes. These include:
Triglycerides are primarily transported in the body via VLDL. Elevated triglyceride levels increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases due to factors such as physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and diabetes. Additionally, high triglyceride levels increase the risk of acute pancreatitis, a severe inflammatory condition of the pancreas.
For children with a family history of high cholesterol or early heart disease, the first test is recommended between 2 and 10 years of age.
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Examinations