Breakthrough in cholesterol reduction made, researchers claim

SDSU Heart Institute researchers found that by inhibiting two proteins, microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) and liver fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP), liver production of lipoproteins can be blocked without causing triglycerides to build on the liver. Normally, these two complementary proteins work together to produce fat and package it into lipoproteins.

Prior to this discovery, pharmaceutical company researchers proved that (MTP) controlled liver production of lipoproteins. Initially, the discovery of MTP inhibitors was seen as a ‘magic bullet’ to reduce heart disease characterized by hardening of the arteries. However, it was discovered that MTP inhibitors also caused fatty liver and could not be used safely in humans and their further development was discontinued.

“This discovery will resurrect the drug development of MTP inhibitors, so they can be used safely and effectively to lower cholesterol in combination with L-FABP inhibitors,” said researcher Roger Davis. “Additionally, MTP inhibitors appear to be more effective and more easily tolerated than statins.”

Statins are the most commonly used drugs for reducing bad cholesterol in blood. They work by removing bad cholesterol from the blood, whereas MTP inhibitors work by blocking its production by the liver. There are some individuals who cannot tolerate statins or do not respond to treatment.

Heart disease and heart attacks remain one of the US’s leading health problems. The American Heart Association estimates more than 1.2 million Americans will have their first or a recurrent heart attack this year.