**Core Concept**
The transport of lipids in the bloodstream is mediated by lipoproteins, which are complex molecules composed of lipids and proteins. Lipoproteins play a crucial role in lipid metabolism, including the transport of cholesterol and triglycerides between the liver, intestines, and peripheral tissues.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Increased blood cholesterol levels typically result from decreased LDL receptor activity, not increased activity. LDL receptors are responsible for removing LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol from the bloodstream and transporting it to the liver for excretion. When LDL receptor activity is decreased, more LDL cholesterol remains in the bloodstream, leading to increased blood cholesterol levels. This is a key mechanism underlying atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) actually transports endogenous lipids, including triglycerides, from the liver to peripheral tissues, not exogenous lipids.
**Option B:** LDL (low-density lipoprotein) transpos lipids to the tissues, but it is more accurate to say that LDL delivers cholesterol to the tissues, where it is used for various cellular functions or stored in macrophages.
**Option D:** Increased HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is indeed associated with decreased risk of coronary disease, as HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from peripheral tissues and transport it to the liver for excretion, thereby reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The LDL/HDL ratio is a useful clinical marker for assessing cardiovascular risk. A higher ratio is associated with increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

✓ Correct Answer: C. Increased blood cholesterol is associated with increased LDL receptors.