Meyahealth
HomeGeneticsGeneLIPC gene
Back to Gene
LIPC gene
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Gene

LIPC gene

The LIPC gene provides instructions for making hepatic lipase, an enzyme that regulates the balance of fat-transporting molecules in the bloodstream.

Normal Function

The LIPC gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called hepatic lipase. This enzyme is produced by liver cells and released into the bloodstream where it helps with the conversion of fat-transporting molecules called very low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs) and intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDLs) to low-density lipoproteins (LDLs). The enzyme also assists in transporting molecules called high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) that carry cholesterol and triglycerides from the blood to the liver, where the HDLs deposit these fats so they can be redistributed to other tissues or removed from the body. Hepatic lipase helps to keep these fat-transporting molecules in balance by regulating the formation of LDLs and the transport of HDLs. Normally, high levels of HDL (known as "good cholesterol") and low levels of LDL (known as "bad cholesterol") are protective against heart disease.

Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes

Hepatic lipase deficiency

At least 10 mutations in the LIPC gene have been found to cause hepatic lipase deficiency. This condition leads to abnormal levels of various fats (lipids) in the bloodstream, although it is unclear whether these changes impact the risk of developing heart disease. The LIPC gene mutations that cause this condition change single protein building blocks (amino acids) in the hepatic lipase enzyme. These mutations prevent the enzyme's release from the liver or decrease its activity in the bloodstream. As a result, VLDLs and IDLs are not efficiently converted into LDLs, and HDLs carrying cholesterol and triglycerides remain in the bloodstream. It is unclear what effect this change in fat levels has on people with hepatic lipase deficiency, as some affected people develop an accumulation of fatty deposits on the artery walls (atherosclerosis) and heart disease in mid-adulthood, while others do not.

Age-related macular degeneration

MedlinePlus Genetics provides information about Age-related macular degeneration.

Other Names for This Gene

  • HDLCQ12
  • hepatic lipase
  • HL
  • HTGL
  • lipase C, hepatic
  • lipase member C
  • lipase, hepatic
  • LIPH

Frequently Asked Questions

nswer 2: Diagnosis usually involves a lipid panel blood test showing characteristic elevations in VLDLs, IDLs, and HDLs. Genetic testing for mutations in the LIPC gene can confirm the diagnosis. While these lipid levels are abnormal, it's important to understand that the direct impact on health, particularly heart disease risk, is not yet fully understood and is a subject of ongoing study.
nswer 1: Hepatic lipase deficiency often does not cause noticeable symptoms on its own. It is typically identified through routine blood tests that show abnormal lipid levels, specifically elevated very low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs), intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDLs), and high-density lipoproteins (HDLs). The clinical significance of these altered lipid levels is still being researched.
nswer 4: Since the clinical impact of hepatic lipase deficiency is not fully established, specific treatments are not always necessary unless other lipid abnormalities or risk factors are present. However, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet low in saturated and trans fats, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, is generally recommended for overall cardiovascular health. Your doctor may monitor your lipid levels periodically.
nswer 3: The current understanding is that it's unclear whether hepatic lipase deficiency directly increases the risk of heart disease. While the condition leads to abnormal levels of certain fats in the bloodstream, the long-term health consequences, especially regarding cardiovascular disease, are still being investigated. Your doctor will consider your overall cardiovascular risk factors.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

Meyahealth

Ⓒ 2026. All rights reserved by MEYA

About UsTerms & PolicyFAQ