HDL Subfractions (Large/Small)
HDL subfraction testing separates HDL into larger, more mature particles (HDL2) and smaller precursor particles (HDL3). Large HDL particles are generally considered more cardioprotective because they efficiently carry cholesterol back to the liver, while functional quality may matter more than absolute numbers. Subfractions add detail to HDL-C for cardiovascular risk assessment.
Optimal range: who says what
No institution or named practitioner we track states an optimal target for HDL Subfractions (Large/Small). How we verify ranges.
- General guidance, no named sourceLarge-particle dominant patternLarge particles carry the cardioprotective association. Cutoffs are lab- and method-dependent
- Lab reference intervalLarge HDL-2 preferred for cardioprotectionWhat a lab report flags against. A lab interval is not an optimal target.
4 providers include this
Additional Specialized Tests
Why HDL Subfractions (Large/Small) matters
Large HDL-2 more cardioprotective than small HDL-3. HDL subfraction analysis provides refined cardiovascular risk assessment.
Which Providers Test HDL Subfractions (Large/Small)?
Cheapest: Mito Health at $297/year. Most comprehensive: Function Health, 160+ biomarkers for $365/year.
4 panels that include it, cheapest first
| Provider | Annual Cost | Total Biomarkers | $/Biomarker |
|---|---|---|---|
| $297 | 100+ | $2.97 | |
 Function Health | $365 | 160+ | $2.28 |
| $499 | 100+ | $4.99 | |
| $1188 | 70+ | $16.97 |
$/Biomarker is annual cost divided by the panel's advertised biomarker count, not the price of this one test. We track 23 blood test providers (32 plans); 21 of those plans are itemized marker by marker. Compare all of them.
17 itemized panels do not include HDL Subfractions (Large/Small)
Superpower · WHOOP Advanced Labs · Labcorp OnDemand · Life Extension Elite · Everlywell · InsideTracker · Marek Health Base · Marek Health Comprehensive · Marek Health Complete · Marek Health Executive · Blueprint · Empirical Health · Oura Health Panels · SiPhox Health · Hims Labs · Vitality Blueprint Standard · Vitality Blueprint Elite
11 providers not itemized in our matrix
We have not itemized these marker by marker (some sell tests one at a time), so this page cannot say whether they offer HDL Subfractions (Large/Small). Check with them directly.
Life Extension Standard · Quest Health · Ultrahuman Blood Vision · Lifeforce · Hundred Health · Personalabs · Walk-In Lab · HealthLabs · WHOOP Specialized Panels · Marek Health Essential · Vitality Blueprint Upload
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the optimal range for HDL Subfractions (Large/Small)?
No institution or named practitioner we track states an optimal target for HDL Subfractions (Large/Small). General guidance without a named source: Large-particle dominant pattern (Large particles carry the cardioprotective association). Lab reference interval: Large HDL-2 preferred for cardioprotection. That is what a lab report flags against, not an optimal target.
Which blood test providers include HDL Subfractions (Large/Small)?
4 of the 21 blood testing panels we itemize marker by marker include HDL Subfractions (Large/Small) in their panels. This biomarker has limited availability.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider about your specific health needs.
Last reviewed Sep 23, 2026 · First published Sep 30, 2025