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Written by Biotic Artlab
Jul 30, 2026

Lipid metabolism

Overview

Lipid metabolism is the process by which the body breaks down, transports, and uses fats, mainly cholesterol and triglycerides. Because these fats don’t dissolve in blood on their own, the body packages them into particles called lipoproteins for transport.1

How Lipoproteins Work

Lipoproteins carry cholesterol and triglycerides from the liver and intestines to tissues throughout the body, and back to the liver for processing. The main types include LDL, often called bad cholesterol because it contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries, and HDL, or good cholesterol, which moves excess cholesterol out of the bloodstream and back to the liver.2

Two Sources of Lipids

The body obtains lipids from two main pathways: the diet, through fats absorbed in the intestine, and internal production, mainly synthesized by the liver. Triglycerides carried through the bloodstream are broken down by an enzyme called lipoprotein lipase, which releases fatty acids for tissues to use as energy.1

Why It’s Measured

A lipid panel is a common blood test that measures HDL, LDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides to assess cardiovascular disease risk.3

Why Visual Communication Matters for Lipid Metabolism

The journey lipids take between the liver, the bloodstream, and body tissues involves several distinct particles and enzymes that are hard to picture from a lab result alone. Clear illustrations help translate a lipid panel into an understandable story about what’s actually happening inside the body.

How We Support Lipid Metabolism Communication

We help with:

  • Illustrations explaining lipoprotein structure and transport pathways
  • Visuals showing how LDL, HDL, and triglycerides relate to cardiovascular risk
  • Patient education content interpreting lipid panel results
  • Sales and training materials for cardiometabolic and pharmaceutical companies

Have a Project in Mind?

Whether you’re explaining lipoprotein transport, developing patient education materials, or presenting clinical research, we create visuals that make complex science easier to understand.
Contact us at info@biotic-artlab.com or reach out through our contact page to discuss your next lipid metabolism communication project.

References

  1. Introduction to Lipids and Lipoproteins. Endotext, NCBI Bookshelf. Available here.
  2. What Is Cholesterol? Types & Function. Cleveland Clinic. Available here.
  3. Lipid Panel: What It Is, Purpose & Results. Cleveland Clinic. Available here.