Cholesterol

A new model suggests that a protein involved in the generation of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) works differently than previously thought. Read More

Vanderbilt researchers used genetics tools and biobanks with linked electronic health records to explore the associations between statins and noncardiovascular diseases. Read More

Sean Davies and colleagues are exploring lipid aldehydes produced during oxidative stress and their contribution to HDL dysfunction and atherosclerosis. Read More

A single pill containing low doses of three medications to treat high blood pressure and one to lower cholesterol reduced the estimated risk of cardiovascular disease by 25%, according to a VUMC study. Read More

Lipid molecules that bind to HDL can modify its function — and blocking that modification can protect HDL and potentially lower the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease. Read More

Vanderbilt investigators have discovered that oxidative damage may play an important role in the development of a rare cholesterol synthesis disease and in the behavioral changes of autism spectrum disorders. Read More

A zebrafish model of a rare genetic disease has revealed an unexpected regulatory pathway for cholesterol absorption and processing. Read More

Chronic kidney disease impairs the protective functions of HDL, Vanderbilt researchers report this month. Read More

A Vanderbilt University-led research team has discovered a “master regulator” for cholesterol production and transport in the liver — a tiny piece of RNA called microRNA-223. Read More

In some cases, HDL, the "good cholesterol," may not function properly and may actually accelerate atherosclerosis. Read More

The antioxidant vitamin E prevented the buildup of toxic products in a model of a rare genetic disorder, suggesting new strategies for therapeutic development. Read More

Nobel laureate Michael Brown, M.D., describes his quest to understand cholesterol during the 2013 Earl W. Sutherland lecture. (Photo by Susan Urmy) Cholesterol is a tricky molecule to keep in balance. It’s a building block for the cell membrane and is required for cell growth and survival. Read More

HDL cholesterol is impaired in patients with chronic kidney disease – and may increase their cardiovascular disease risk. Read More

A new study identifies interactions between genes and nutrients that may participate in determining levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. Read More

A genetic variant may help keep an individual’s “good” cholesterol in check. Read More

The molecular structure of a protein involved in Alzheimer’s disease – and the surprising discovery that it binds cholesterol – could lead to new therapeutics for the memory-robbing disease. Read More

Antioxidants may be a beneficial treatment for an inherited genetic disorder. Read More

Studies offer new insights into how obesity impairs the function of HDL, the “good” cholesterol. Read More

Compounds developed at Vanderbilt could offer a whole new way to treat atherosclerosis. Read More

Vanderbilt University Medical Center doctors announced today they will begin screening patients who take commonly prescribed statin drugs for a rare genetic variation that can increase risks for side effects from these drugs such as muscle aches, kidney damage and even death. Read More