Members of the low density lipoprotein receptor family control diverse physiological processes.

The low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) family is a group of receptors that mediate endocytosis leading to lysosomal degradation of an enormous repertoire of ligands. To date, over 50 distinct macromolecules have been shown to bind members of the family. This wide spectrum of ligand recognition is the basis for an immense diversity in physiological processes in which these receptors participate. In this article, the physiological roles of the LDLR family members are briefly reviewed and a comprehensive list of the ligands with which the receptors interact is presented.