20α-Hydroxy Cholesterol (CAS 516-72-3)

20α-Hydroxycholesterol, a cholesterol derivative, has emerged as a key regulator of cellular cholesterol homeostasis and lipid metabolism. Its mechanism of action primarily involves its role as an endogenous agonist for liver X receptors (LXRs), nuclear receptors that play crucial roles in the transcriptional regulation of genes involved in cholesterol metabolism and transport. Upon binding to LXRs, 20α-hydroxycholesterol induces the expression of genes encoding proteins involved in cholesterol efflux, such as ATP-binding cassette transporters ABCA1 and ABCG1, leading to the removal of excess cholesterol from cells. Additionally, 20α-hydroxycholesterol has been shown to modulate the expression of genes involved in fatty acid synthesis and lipid droplet formation, further influencing lipid metabolism. In scientific research, 20α-hydroxycholesterol has been studied extensively to explain its role in cholesterol homeostasis, lipid metabolism, and the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders such as atherosclerosis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Additionally, 20α-hydroxycholesterol serves as a valuable biomarker for assessing cholesterol metabolism and its dysregulation in various physiological and pathological conditions.