VLDL-3 Unit Converter

VLDL-3 is the smallest, densest subfraction of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol. It represents a partially metabolized VLDL particle that has lost much of its triglyceride content but retains a relatively high proportion of cholesterol.

As the liver releases VLDL into the bloodstream, enzymes progressively strip triglycerides from the particle. The largest particles are classified as VLDL-1, intermediate ones as VLDL-2, and the smallest remnants as VLDL-3. These VLDL-3 remnants sit at the boundary between VLDL and intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL).

Because of their small size and cholesterol-rich composition, VLDL-3 particles are considered particularly atherogenic. They are small enough to penetrate artery walls and contribute to plaque formation.

VLDL-3 forms in the bloodstream as larger VLDL particles released by the liver are progressively broken down by lipoprotein lipase in muscle and fat tissue. As triglycerides are removed, the particle shrinks and becomes denser, ultimately producing the VLDL-3 remnant.