Role of inflammation in LDL formation?

Rhonda Patrick and Ronald Krauss discuss how inflammation plays a significant role in LDL formation and general lipoprotein metabolism:

1. Inflammation and Lipoprotein Metabolism: Inflammation increases the production of VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein). This is partially because inflammation raises levels of endotoxins, which are lipopolysaccharides from bacterial cell walls in the gut. These endotoxins bind to lipoproteins, including VLDL and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) as a defense mechanism, preventing sepsis and other toxic infections. This binding process potentially keeps smaller dense lipoproteins in circulation longer, leading to greater risks associated with these particles 1.

2. Atherogenic Process: Inflammation is a major factor converting benign cholesterol deposits into dangerous forms that can lead to blood clots, plaque formation, and artery blockage. It's an evolutionary adaptation meant to aid in host defense, but in modern contexts, it contributes to heart disease 1.

3. Cytokines and LDL Secretion: Cytokines like TNF alpha and interferon produced during inflammatory responses stimulate the liver to secrete LDL. This process involves rapid synthesis and export of VLDL particles, which is believed to be part of the body's host defense mechanism. It allows for the removal of endotoxins from the bloodstream, sequestering them with lipoproteins 2.

Understanding these mechanisms illustrates how inflammation isn't just a side effect but a central factor in increasing and transforming lipoproteins in a way that can contribute to cardiovascular risk.