Lipoprotein lipase is activated by which drug?
First, I need to recall the drugs that affect lipoprotein metabolism. Fibrates come to mind. They're used for lowering triglycerides. Oh right, fibrates activate PPAR-alpha, which upregulates lipoprotein lipase. So drugs like fenofibrate or gemfibrozil would be the answer here.
Now, the other options. Statins, for example, work by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, which is part of cholesterol synthesis. They don't affect lipoprotein lipase. Niacin (vitamin B3) reduces the production of VLDL and triglycerides but doesn't directly activate the enzyme. Omega-3 fatty acids also lower triglycerides but through different mechanisms, like inhibiting lipolysis in adipose tissue.
Wait, what about insulin? Insulin can activate lipoprotein lipase in some tissues, but the question is about drugs. So insulin isn't a drug in the context of this question, or maybe it's not listed as an option. So the correct answer must be a fibrate.
So the core concept here is the action of fibrates on lipoprotein lipase via PPAR-alpha activation. The correct answer is the fibrate drug. The other options don't act on this enzyme directly.
**Core Concept**
Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) hydrolyzes triglycerides in chylomicrons and VLDL. Its activity is regulated by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-α) agonists, which upregulate LPL expression and activity.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Fibrates (e.g., fenofibrate, gemfibrozil) are PPAR-α agonists. Activation of PPAR-α increases LPL synthesis in adipose and muscle tissues, enhancing triglyceride clearance. This reduces plasma triglycerides and raises HDL cholesterol.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Statins inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, blocking cholesterol synthesis. No direct effect on LPL.
**Option B:** Niacin reduces hepatic VLDL production but inhibits lipolysis via adipose tissue hormone-sensitive lipase.
**Option D:** Omega-3 fatty acids lower triglycerides by inhibiting hepatic VLDL synthesis and reducing lipolysis.
**Clinical Pearl**
Fibrates are first-line for hypertriglyceridemia. Remember “FIBRATE = LPL boost” to link PPAR-α activation with enzyme upregulation. Avoid in severe renal/hepatic disease.
**Correct Answer: C. Fibrates**