In lipoprotein electrophoresis, which fraction migrates in the pre-beta zone?

In lipoprotein electrophoresis, very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) migrate in the pre-beta zone. This is due to their density and charge characteristics, which affect their movement in an electric field. VLDL particles contain a significant amount of triglycerides, which contributes to their lower density and allows them to be classified appropriately in the electrophoretic pattern.

As the electrophoresis process occurs, lipoproteins separate based on their mobility in the electric field. In this context, VLDL is positioned between chylomicrons and LDL on the electrophoretic spectrum, ultimately resulting in its location in the pre-beta zone. This distinction is crucial for identifying and analyzing different lipoprotein classes in clinical settings, especially when assessing cardiovascular risk factors associated with lipid profiles.

The other types of lipoproteins—such as HDL, LDL, and chylomicrons—migrate to different areas of the electrophoretic gel due to their differing densities and compositions, which accounts for the classification of lipoproteins in this diagnostic method.