Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) ASCP Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) primarily function to transport endogenous triglycerides from the liver to peripheral tissues. VLDL is synthesized in the liver and is a key component of lipid metabolism. It carries triglycerides that the body has synthesized from carbohydrates or from mobilized fatty acids to the cells that require energy or store fat. Once VLDL releases triglycerides to tissues, it is converted into intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDL) and can eventually become low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which are involved in cholesterol transport.

Transporting dietary fats pertains to chylomicrons, which are formed in the intestinal mucosa and carry lipids obtained directly from the diet. This refers specifically to exogenous lipids rather than the endogenous fats that VLDL carries. While cholesterol is transported by various lipoproteins including LDL and high-density lipoproteins (HDL), it is not the primary role of VLDL. Thus, the primary function of VLDL aligns with its role in the transport of endogenous triglycerides, clarifying the focus of the correct answer.