Lipoprotein: Lipoproteins are complex proteins that help to transport cholesterol throughout the body. Lipoproteins can be divided in seven distinct categories based on size and composition. Some well-known lipoproteins included low-density lipoproteins (LDL; also known as "bad" cholesterol) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL; also known as "good" cholesterol). LDL can build up within the body and collect on arteries which increases the risk for heart disease and stroke. On the contrary, HDL absorbs cholesterol and carries it to the liver where it is degraded.