An increased plasma concentration of cholesterol is most likely to be caused by a deficiency of which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A deficiency of LDL receptors leads to decreased clearance of LDL cholesterol from the blood, resulting in increased plasma cholesterol levels. The liver takes up LDL (and IDL) after they have interacted with the LDL receptor to form a complex, which is endocytosed by the cell. For LDL receptors in the liver to recognize LDL, they require the presence of both apoB-100 and apoE (the LDL receptor is also called the apoB-100/apoE receptor). Lack of functional LDL receptors is associated with hypercholesterolemia and the increased development of atherosclerotic plaques, leading to coronary heart disease.

An Increased Plasma Concentration of Cholesterol Is Most Likely to Be