What is the major lipid transported by chylomicrons?

• A. Cholesterol
• B. Triglycerides
• C. Phospholipids
• D. Proteins

Answer: (B)

Triglycerides are the main cargo of chylomicrons. These lipoprotein particles are formed in intestinal cells to transport dietary fats through the lymph and into the bloodstream, and their core is packed predominantly with triglycerides, making them TG-rich. The surface of chylomicrons contains phospholipids, cholesterol, and apolipoproteins, but these are structural components rather than the primary fuel being carried. As chylomicrons circulate, lipoprotein lipase hydrolyzes the triglycerides to free fatty acids for uptake by tissues, after which the particle becomes a remnant enriched in cholesterol esters. So, while cholesterol and phospholipids are present, the major lipid delivered by chylomicrons is triglycerides.