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Glite Dictionary
alpha-lipoprotein

alpha-lipoprotein

7.2
A particle in the blood that carries cholesterol and helps protect the heart
  • noun
  • /ˈælfə ˌlaɪpəˈproʊtiːn/
  • Specialized
translation icon : alfa-lipoproteína
  • Doctors often refer to alpha-lipoprotein as 'good cholesterol' when discussing test results with patients.

Examples

  • A high level of alpha-lipoprotein in the blood is considered beneficial for cardiovascular health.

  • Research suggests that exercise can increase alpha-lipoprotein concentrations in the bloodstream.

  • The alpha-lipoprotein levels in her blood were unusually high.

  • Doctors recommend monitoring alpha-lipoprotein levels for heart health.

  • A high level of alpha-lipoprotein in the blood is considered beneficial for cardiovascular health.

  • Research suggests that exercise can increase alpha-lipoprotein concentrations in the bloodstream.

  • Doctors recommend monitoring alpha-lipoprotein levels for heart health.

Synonyms

HDL
vsalpha-lipoprotein
  • Specialized
11 3.2

A type of good cholesterol in the blood that helps remove fat from arteries

is the full form used as an alternate scientific name
high-density lipoprotein
vsalpha-lipoprotein
  • Specialized
4.1

A part of the blood that carries cholesterol and helps lower heart disease risk

is an alternative scientific name for the same particle

Surface Forms

alpha-lipoprotein singular
alpha-lipoproteins plural

Morphology

alpha-lipoprotein = lipoprotein (semi-transparent) = alpha + lipo + protein

The term is formed by adding the classificatory prefix 'alpha-' to 'lipoprotein', indicating the alpha class of that particle.

Etymology

Alpha-lipoprotein breaks into alpha ('first'), lipo- ('fat'), and protein ('protein' or 'body building block'), so the name literally points to a main fat-and-protein particle in the blood. That's why alpha-lipoprotein is often called 'good cholesterol' because it helps carry cholesterol and is linked to a lower risk of heart disease.