Which lipoprotein is known as \"good\" cholesterol and what is its primary role?

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HDL is known as the “good” cholesterol because its main job is reverse cholesterol transport: it scavenges cholesterol from peripheral tissues and arterial plaques and carries it back to the liver for elimination or recycling. This helps reduce the cholesterol burden in blood vessels and protects against plaque buildup. HDL originates from the liver and intestine and becomes cholesterol-rich through interactions with other lipoproteins and enzymes, ultimately delivering the cholesterol to the liver where it can be excreted in bile or converted to bile acids.

In contrast, other lipoproteins have different roles. VLDL transports triglycerides from the liver to tissues; chylomicrons carry dietary triglycerides from the intestine to tissues; and LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to tissues, contributing to plaque formation when levels are high.