Which property is used to differentiate lipoproteins in ultracentrifugation?

Which property is used to differentiate lipoproteins in ultracentrifugation?

• A. Protein and TG content
• B. Color
• C. Solubility in water
• D. Magnetic susceptibility

Answer: (A)

Lipoproteins are separated by ultracentrifugation according to their density, and density is determined by the triglyceride and protein content of the particle. More triglycerides (lipid-rich particles) lower density, while a higher proportion of protein raises density. This is why chylomicrons, with lots of triglyceride, are the least dense, and HDL, with relatively more protein, is the most dense. During ultracentrifugation, particles settle into layers by density, allowing differentiation among the lipoproteins. Color, water solubility, and magnetic properties don’t govern their separation.

Lipoproteins are separated by ultracentrifugation according to their density, and density is determined by the triglyceride and protein content of the particle. More triglycerides (lipid-rich particles) lower density, while a higher proportion of protein raises density. This is why chylomicrons, with lots of triglyceride, are the least dense, and HDL, with relatively more protein, is the most dense. During ultracentrifugation, particles settle into layers by density, allowing differentiation among the lipoproteins. Color, water solubility, and magnetic properties don’t govern their separation.