Q. 15.54 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

Why is $HDL$ called "good" cholesterol?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The $HDL$ transports excess cholesterol from tissues to the liver, where it is transferred to bile salts and dominated.

$HDL$ does not deposit cholesterol in arteries like $LDL,$ so $HDLs$ are called "good cholesterol.

Step1: Introduction.

$HDL$ (high-density lipoprotein), also known as "good" cholesterol, absorbs cholesterol and transports it to the liver. It is then flushed from the body by the liver.

Step2: Given Information.

For this reason, $HDL$ cholesterol is referred to as "good" cholesterol.

Step3: Explanation.

The $HDL$ transports excess cholesterol from tissues to the liver, where it is transferred to bile salts and dominated.

$HDL$ does not deposit cholesterol in arteries like $LDL,$ so $HDLs$ are called "good cholesterol.