SYNERGISM BETWEEN THE EFFECTS OF DIETARY-CHOLESTEROL AND COCONUT OIL ON PLASMA, LIVER AND LIPOPROTEIN COMPOSITION OF NEONATAL CHICK

The nature of the synergism between dietary factors and the developmen t of atherosclerosis has not been fully defined. Our studies showed th at simultaneous supplementation of 10% saturated fat rich in 12:0 and 14:0 fatty acids (coconut oil) plus 1% cholesterol to the diet produce d a sharp increase of plasma cholesterol, indicating a synergic influe nce of both dietary constituents. This increase was especially patent in the VLDL fraction, modifying the distribution of other lipid compon ents between the core and the surface of these particles. These change s are consistent with the atherogenic function of VLDL and its respons iveness to dietary manipulation. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All ri ghts reserved.