Apolipoprotein B100
Alternate Names : ApoB100, Apoprotein B100
Definition
This test measures the amount of apolipoprotein B100 (apoB100) in the blood.
Lipoproteins are large complexes of molecules that transport lipids (primarily triglycerides and cholesterols) through the blood. Apolipoproteins are proteins on the surface of the lipoprotein complex that bind to specific enzymes or transport proteins on the cell membranes; this directs the lipoprotein to the proper site of metabolism. ApoB100 is in an intermediate form of lipoprotein (IDL) and an low density lipoprotein (LDL).
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Why is the Test Performed?
Most often, this test is performed to help determine the cause of hyperlipidemia (elevated blood lipid levels).
ApoB100 is a form of apoB that occurs in LDL and IDL but not in chylomicrons (large lipoprotein particles that contain apoB48 and other apolipoproteins).
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