About HDL Large
High-density lipoprotein large subfraction refers to the sub-type of HDL particles that are larger in size and are thought to be more effective in reverse cholesterol transport. These particles are generally considered to be protective against cardiovascular diseases, as they can carry cholesterol away from arteries and towards the liver for excretion.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
20.0 - 30.0 mg/dL
Women's Optimal Range
20.0 - 30.0 mg/dL
Elite Value
40.0 mg/dL
Health Implications
High
Elevated levels may indicate increased cardiovascular protection but could also suggest genetic factors impacting lipid metabolism.
Low
Low levels may be associated with a higher risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease due to decreased cholesterol clearance.
Symptoms
High
May include excessive tiredness, nausea, unexplained weight loss, headaches, chest pain, or yellowing of the skin (jaundice).
Low
Can include dizziness, fatigue, rapid heartbeat, cold hands and feet, pale skin, shortness of breath, or a general feeling of weakness.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- 1. Rosenson, R. S., Brewer, H. B., Davidson, W. S., Fayad, Z. A., Fuster, V., Goldstein, J., ... & Rader, D. J. (2016). Cholesterol efflux and atheroprotection: advancing the concept of reverse cholesterol transport. Circulation, 133(21), 1839-1848.
- 2. Rohatgi, A., Khera, A., Berry, J. D., Givens, E. G., Ayers, C. R., Wedin, K. E., ... & de Lemos, J. A. (2014). HDL cholesterol efflux capacity and incident cardiovascular events. New England Journal of Medicine, 371(25), 2383-2393.
- 3. Rader, D. J., & Hovingh, G. K. (2014). HDL and cardiovascular disease. The Lancet, 384(9943), 618-625.
- 4. Rosenson, R. S., Brewer, H. B., Chapman, M. J., Fazio, S., Hussain, M. M., Kontush, A., ... & Rader, D. J. (2011). HDL measures, particle heterogeneity, and function: clinical applications. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 58(10), 1031-1041.
- 5. Kontush, A., & Chapman, M. J. (2006). Functionally defective high-density lipoprotein: a new therapeutic target at the crossroads of dyslipidemia, inflammation, and atherosclerosis. Pharmacological Reviews, 58(3), 342-374.