Cholesterol Metabolism Pathway

The cholesterol metabolism pathway encompasses the biosynthesis, uptake, transport, utilization, and excretion of cholesterol—a vital lipid molecule essential for cell membrane structure, steroid hormone synthesis, bile acid production, and other physiological functions. Cholesterol homeostasis is tightly regulated through endogenous synthesis (primarily in the liver), dietary absorption (exogenous pathway), cellular uptake via lipoproteins and receptors, conversion to bile acids for excretion, and reverse transport from tissues back to the liver. Dysregulation leads to metabolic disorders such as hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. Low HDL-cholesterol contributes to metabolic syndrome characterized by obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Statins lower blood cholesterol primarily by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase.

Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase (by statins)