Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often referred to as "bad cholesterol" due to its role in transporting cholesterol to the arteries, where it can form plaques and cause atherosclerosis. When LDL particles become oxidized, they are even more harmful and contribute significantly to the development of cardiovascular diseases. Oxidized LDL (oxLDL) is LDL that has undergone oxidative modification, making it more prone to contributing to inflammatory processes and plaque formation.