Effects of a high cholesterol diet on synthesis of plasma low density lipoprotein.

Abstract

When diets high in fat and cholesterol are fed to animals, plasma cholesterol levels are elevated. In some species, such as the rabbit, the levels reached are very high and atherosclerosis readily develops(l). Under these circumstances, the low density or β lipoprotein levels in plasma are particularly increased. It is difficult to elevate the plasma low density lipoproteins in the rat to this degree by feeding such diets, but there is no doubt that elevation of plasma and liver cholesterol content can be achieved(2). Can such diets affect the rate of hepatic synthesis of the low density lipoproteins in the rat? We have recently succeeded in measuring the net synthesis of plasma low density lipoproteins in the perfused rat liver by an immunochemical method(3) and have now applied this technic to an investigation of the effects of a high fat-high cholesterol diet. Our results indicate that, in the rat, such a diet does not lead to an increased synthesis of the protein moiety of the low density lipoproteins...