Cholesterol and lipid-regulatory pathways

Cholesterol and lipid-regulatory pathways encompass the complex network of biochemical processes responsible for the synthesis, transport, and degradation of lipids and cholesterol within the body. These pathways are critical for maintaining cellular membrane integrity, producing essential steroid hormones, and facilitating energy storage and signaling. Key components of these pathways include enzymes like HMG-CoA reductase, transport proteins such as NPC1L1, and regulatory proteins like PCSK9 and SREBPs. Dysregulation of these pathways is a primary driver of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, most notably atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia. Pharmacological intervention in these pathways, primarily through statins and newer biologics, remains a cornerstone of cardiovascular risk reduction and the management of lipid disorders.

Other names

Lipid metabolism pathwaysCholesterol homeostasisLipid regulatory network

Drugs targeting these pathways typically act by inhibiting key enzymes (e.g., HMG-CoA reductase), blocking cholesterol absorption in the intestine (e.g., NPC1L1 inhibition), or enhancing the clearance of low-density lipoproteins from the blood by inhibiting PCSK9.