Controlling cholesterol levels may be a major task, but the following tidbit can help overcome this difficulty. Investigators from the Saint Louis University have discovered a microRNA that seems to help regulate cholesterol levels in blood. It was claimed that the microRNA known as miR-33 is a hallmark in controlling HDL, or ‘good’ cholesterol levels.
In order to manage cholesterol levels, doctors may recommend the intake of statins. This drug seemingly lowers LDL, or ‘bad’ cholesterol levels. Previous investigations have revealed that HDL has a protective benefit against cardiovascular diseases. Once miR-33 is affirmed to elevate HDL levels, it may help treat heart disease. Scientists thoroughly scrutinized SREBP-2, a crucial gene in the body. During the investigations microRNA, miR-33 expressed within SREBP-2 was seemingly found.
Experts increased levels of miR-33 in the liver. It was observed that elevation of miR-33 lowered HDL cholesterol levels in an animal model. Seemingly Ãngel Baldán, Ph.D., lead investigator, assistant professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at Saint Louis University and colleagues turned off miR-33 and noted boosted HDL levels. Four other investigations also claim similar results. The findings may be beneficial in determining better medications for treating atherosclerosis.
The research was published in a recent issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America.