top of page

CHOLESTEROL

Cholesterol and diseases

Cholesterol plays vital roles in our body. As an essential building block of cell membranes, cholesterol is fundamental for biosynthesis, integrity, and functions of the biological membranes. It is also crucial for synthesis of hormones, vitamin D, and other substances. However, dysregulated cholesterol homeostasis and excessive accumulation of cholesterol can increase risk of having various age-related and metabolic diseases including chronic kidney disease, neurodegenerative diseases, MASH, and atherosclerosis.

image.png

Regulation of cholesterol homeostasis

Proper intracellular distribution among subcellular organelles and the plasma membrane, storage in the cholesteryl ester form, and efflux through passive and active pathways should well coordinate for regulation of cholesterol homeostasis.

Cholesterol pathways_bg.png

Dysregulated cholesterol homeostasis

Various factors including aging, diabetes, and genetics can cause cholesterol metabolic dysfunction.  Dysregulation of cholesterol homeostasis and accumulation of excessive cholesterol can result in cholesterol-induced toxicities, which can contribute to developing various diseases.

Cholesterol toxicity.png

A novel approach to cholesterol intervention

There are some drugs available for cholesterol intervention, including statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, and fibrates. However, these drugs primarily target circulating low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels rather than directly addressing intracellular cholesterol accumulation in diseased tissues.

Renatus approach.png

At Renatus, we are pioneering a novel approach to directly target and reverse intracellular cholesterol accumulation, offering a potential solution to the underlying cause of many age-related and metabolic diseases.

bottom of page