Research on cholesterol and heart health. Covers post-heart-attack LDL lowering, cardiovascular event reduction, gene-editing therapy, and cancer links.
Researchers found that LDL cholesterol increases by an average of 7mg/dL in winter compared to summer, resulting in a 8% overall increase in high cholesterol prevalence. Seasonal variations in metabolism and behavior may contribute to these changes.
A study by 98-year-old researcher Fred Kummerow found that oxidized lipids contribute to heart disease by increasing calcium deposition on the arterial wall and interrupting blood flow. Oxidized cholesterol was also linked to an increased synthesis of a blood-clotting agent, thromboxane.
Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have identified a new gene mutation causing Schnyder corneal dystrophy, a rare hereditary eye disease. The mutation is linked to vitamin K metabolism and may lead to the development of a new treatment using vitamin K supplements.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have made significant findings on the link between gut bacteria and cholesterol metabolism. The study reveals that gut bacteria can reduce bile acid synthesis in the liver by signaling through a specific protein, which could lead to new treatments for cardiovascular disease.
Researchers have found a gene associated with an unusual type of cholesterol that increases the risk of developing aortic stenosis, the most common form of heart valve disease. High levels of Lipoprotein (a) cholesterol are predicted primarily by an individual's genetic make-up.
Researchers discovered that sphingolipids form larger domains than expected, clustering together to create micrometer-sized patches in the membrane. The presence of cholesterol affects lipid aggregation, but its role is more complex than initially thought.
A new study by University of Illinois researchers reveals that lipids in the cell membrane form larger domains than previously thought, with cholesterol playing a key role in their organization. The findings challenge current understanding of cell membrane structure and function.
A new study of 73,000 Danes found that 'ugly' cholesterol, a type of remnant-like particle cholesterol, is the direct cause of arteriosclerosis and ischaemic heart disease. High levels of ugly cholesterol triple the risk of heart disease, emphasizing the need for preventive treatment and lifestyle changes.
Researchers at Northwestern University discovered a new nanoparticle that kills B-cell lymphoma cells by depriving them of natural HDL cholesterol. The nanoparticle, which mimics the size and shape of HDL particles, blocks cholesterol from entering cancer cells, leading to cell death.
A study published in Neurology found that smoking and poor blood pressure and cholesterol levels significantly increase the risk of death for patients who have survived subarachnoid hemorrhage. The research, which followed over 64,000 Finns, revealed that lifestyle changes can help prevent early deaths among SAH survivors.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have identified a mechanism underlying statin-induced muscle pain, which may be related to low energy production in muscles due to Q10 depletion. Statins, commonly used to treat high cholesterol levels, can affect skeletal muscle function and lead to muscle weakness and pain.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified two molecules that stimulate liver X receptors in the midbrain, promoting the production of new dopamine-producing neurons. These findings may lead to the development of regenerative medicine treatments for Parkinson's disease.
Scientists from Scripps Research Institute have developed a synthetic compound that reverses the effects of fatty liver disease by suppressing lipid production in the liver. The compound, SR9238, also significantly lowered total cholesterol levels and reduced markers for liver damage.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that cholesterol regulates key signaling proteins in cells, challenging existing views on its role in heart disease. The research found that cholesterol interacts with a scaffolding protein to activate its partner, shedding light on the importance of cholesterol in cellular processes.
A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that changes in dietary cholesterol can alter the gut flora, leading to a shift in bacterial populations. The researchers discovered that this change triggered an increase in cholesterol excretion into the gut, which in turn affected the abundance of certain bacterial taxa.
A recent study suggests that consuming whole eggs can improve lipid profiles in individuals with metabolic syndrome, reducing triglycerides and increasing HDL cholesterol levels. Egg yolks are also a rich source of antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin D, choline, and lutein.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that combining better physical fitness and statins significantly improves survival in people with unhealthy blood fat or cholesterol levels. Moderate intensity physical activity can be achieved through walking, gardening, and gym classes, making it a feasible option for many middle-aged adul...
A new study found that using electronic health records (EHRs) can identify patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease and encourage them to receive cholesterol-lowering medication. The study showed that patients who received personalized risk assessments via mail were twice as likely to receive a prescription for lipid-lowering m...
Research found that people with diabetes who have adequate vitamin D are less likely to develop clogged arteries. In contrast, insufficient vitamin D leads to immune cells binding to blood vessels and trapping cholesterol.
A large community-based cohort study found that fasting duration showed little association with lipid subclass levels, including total cholesterol and HDL. The authors conclude that fasting for routine lipid level determinations is largely unnecessary.
Daniel J. Rader, MD, has been awarded the American Heart Association's (AHA) Clinical Research Prize for developing new methods to identify factors regulating fat particle metabolism and testing their impact on atherosclerosis. His research focuses on genetic and pharmacologic regulation of lipoprotein metabolism and atherosclerosis.
A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that apolipoprotein E (apoE) plays a key role in maintaining arterial softness. The protein is associated with the production of collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins, which contribute to cardiovascular disease risk.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania developed a new medicine to treat patients suffering from homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, a rare and deadly cholesterol disorder. Lomitapide substantially reduced LDL cholesterol in patients by up to 50% and improved therapeutic goals for some patients.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen reveals that high blood cholesterol is far more prevalent in Denmark and globally than previously recognized. The research found 40,000 Danes with hereditary high blood cholesterol, a significant underdiagnosis and undertreatment of this serious disease.
A new study reveals that resistin, secreted by fat tissue, increases 'bad' cholesterol levels and accelerates artery plaque buildup. The discovery could lead to revolutionary new therapeutic drugs targeting resistin, improving statin effectiveness.
A new review suggests that intensive treatment with high doses of certain statin drugs is usually the best approach for treating high cholesterol and other blood lipid problems. Increasing statin doses can reduce cardiovascular problems by up to 30% in patients who need them.
A large international study has identified 21 new gene variants associated with risks of heart disease and metabolic disorders. The findings expand the list of potential targets for drugs and other treatments for lipid-related cardiovascular disease, a leading global cause of death and disability.
A survey of 677 supplement users found that nearly half are concerned about heart health and 75% prefer natural ways to lower cholesterol. The new probiotic supplement Cardioviva aims to fill this gap with a safe and natural addition to a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle.
Long-term survivors of hematopoietic cell transplants are at higher risk of developing high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol compared to the general population. Exposure to pre-transplant chemotherapy and radiation, as well as transplant type, contribute to this increased risk.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that using electronic health records improved drug-treatment intensification, monitoring, and risk-factor control among patients with diabetes. The study also noted greater improvements among patients with poorer diabetes control.
Researchers have upended assumptions on how high cholesterol leads to inflammation and atherosclerosis. Desmosterol, a precursor to cholesterol, has been found to suppress inflammatory response genes and regulate cholesterol balance.
A new study found that cooking with a blend of sesame and rice bran oils significantly lowers blood pressure and improves cholesterol levels. The researchers discovered that the oil blend works nearly as well as a commonly prescribed high blood pressure medication, with even more impressive results when used in combination.
Researchers at URMC found that defective cholesterol exportation appears to be a key component in various cancers. They demonstrated that re-establishing the cholesterol export function in human colon cancer cells inhibited tumor growth.
Vitamin D supplements did not improve cholesterol levels, according to a new study conducted at The Rockefeller University Hospital. Researchers found that correcting vitamin D deficiencies with high doses of oral vitamin D supplements had no effect on cholesterol levels in the short term.
Researchers in India have developed a non-invasive approach to determine total cholesterol levels using image processing and a database of known cholesterol levels. The test uses a digital camera to capture the back of a patient's hand and compares it with images in a database for accurate cholesterol readings.
Regular egg yolk consumption accelerates atherosclerosis in a manner similar to smoking cigarettes, according to a new study published in the journal Atherosclerosis. The research found that those eating three or more yolks per week had significantly more plaque area than those who ate two or fewer yolks per week.
A recent study found that average total cholesterol levels among US children and adolescents decreased between 1988-1994 and 2007-2010. Additionally, there was a decrease in prevalence of elevated non-HDL-C, LDL-C, and triglycerides among this age group.
Researchers found that activation of A2b-type adenosine receptor reduces insulin and glucose levels and improves symptoms of high-fat diet-induced type 2 diabetes. The study identified a novel link between A2bAR and insulin signaling, providing new insights into the regulation of glucose and insulin homeostasis.
The trial found large reductions in blood pressure and LDL cholesterol, with estimated benefits of avoiding or delaying a heart attack or stroke by 28% among participants. The Polypill is a four-component tablet that contains three blood pressure-lowering medicines and a statin for lowering cholesterol.
A German study found that focusing on high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, irregular heartbeat, and depression reduced the need for long-term care by 10% in women and 9.6% in men. The study also showed a decrease in death rates, with 2,112 expected deaths vs. 1,939 actual deaths.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered that analyzing HDL particle count provides stronger cardio-protection than traditional HDL cholesterol measurement. The study suggests that raising HDL levels through other means may be more effective in preventing coronary heart disease.
Researchers discovered that silencing miR-33 reduces bile transporters and improves liver toxicity caused by statins. This breakthrough may lead to treatment options for those with BRIC and statin side effects, including improved bile metabolism and reduced cholestasis.
A Wayne State University researcher has found that ProAlgaZyme, an algae extract, increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels in animal models. This increase is associated with improved lipid profiles and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
Scientists have created a new laboratory opossum model to study nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a common liver disease affecting up to 15 million Americans. The study found that high responders carried a mutated ABCB4 gene, leading to cholesterol accumulation in the liver and potential development of NASH.
Researchers at Carnegie Institution have developed a method to observe lipid metabolism in live zebrafish, revealing new aspects of lipid absorption that could improve human health. The technique enables scientists to study the process by which proteins mediate fatty acid uptake and cholesterol transport.
A study published in the National Lipid Association Annual Scientific Sessions has shown that intensive cholesterol therapy involving a combination of drugs can be more effective over the long run than taking a single statin medication. After 20 years, patients on combination therapy had lower LDL and triglyceride levels, higher HDL, a...
Scientists have discovered that zebrafish can only absorb cholesterol when fed a high-fat diet, and certain long-chain fatty acids enhance this process. The study sheds light on the complex biological mechanisms of cholesterol processing and its regulation by dietary fat.
Researchers found that adding certain apolipoproteins and lipoproteins to risk scores improved cardiovascular disease prediction in individuals without known CVD. However, the addition of these markers did not improve discrimination beyond conventional risk factors, and the clinical benefits remain uncertain.
University of Minnesota researchers found that patients with high levels of good cholesterol but low levels of the GPx3 enzyme were six times less likely to develop cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that measuring this enzyme may become a common blood test to determine risk for cardiovascular disease.
A 25-year study in Northern Sweden found that a switch to low-carbohydrate diets after reducing fat intake led to an increase in cholesterol levels, indicating a higher cardiovascular risk. Despite initial success in reducing cholesterol levels through dietary changes, the population's BMI continued to rise over time.
A new study from VCU School of Medicine has identified molecular changes that may explain the severity of liver disease and risks to heart health in patients with fatty liver. The findings suggest increased cholesterol production and decreased expression of a receptor that takes up cholesterol, leading to cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University discovered a new therapeutic strategy to reduce amyloid-beta production in Alzheimer's disease. By understanding how cholesterol binds to the amyloid precursor protein, they found that blocking this interaction could prevent amyloid-beta generation and treatment of dementia.
Recent studies using mendelian randomization have failed to support a causal association between higher concentrations of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and lower risk of heart attack. Instead, findings suggest that raising HDL cholesterol may not uniformly reduce the risk of myocardial infarction in humans.
Researchers at UF will study glycogen storage disease type III and its potential link to high blood pressure and other common conditions on the Faroe Islands. The center aims to provide insights into a rare genetic disorder and potentially change treatment approaches.
Researchers found two subclasses of HDL cholesterol: one with apolipoprotein C-III increases heart disease risk, while the other without it is protective. Measuring HDL-apoC-III may be a better gauge of heart disease risk than total HDL.
Research suggests that whole egg consumption can improve markers of metabolic syndrome, including HDL metabolism and inflammation. Higher-protein breakfasts also lead to increased feelings of satiety and reduced high-fat snacking.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University found that cholesterol-binding proteins called ORPs can control cell growth, potentially slowing down cancer cells. Genetic changes blocked the ability of these proteins to bind cholesterol, but altered ORPs actually stimulated cell growth by activating regulator proteins.
Researchers have made significant advancements in treating autoimmune diabetes by harnessing the power of gut bacteria. Additionally, studies on cancer treatment and tumor growth have revealed that vascular normalization can prevent dangerous side effects while enhancing anti-tumor effects. Furthermore, scientists have discovered a coo...
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that eliminating the 'good cholesterol' receptor SR-BI can decrease breast cancer cell growth and tumor formation in mice. This study suggests a potential new approach to fighting breast cancer, with further research needed to fully characterize its role.
Researchers discovered a novel signaling pathway involving SIX1 and VEGF-C that plays a crucial role in breast cancer metastasis. The study showed that this pathway can be targeted to develop new anti-cancer therapies.