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Phytosterols in the prevention of human pathologies

H Tapiero1, D M Townsend, K D Tew

  • 1Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Paris, CNRS UMR 8612, 5, rue Jean-Baptiste-Clément, 94200 Chatenay Malabry, France. haimtapiero@aol.com

Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & Pharmacotherapie
|October 22, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Plant sterols and stanols effectively lower harmful LDL cholesterol by inhibiting intestinal absorption. These compounds offer potential therapeutic options for hypercholesterolemia and may impact tumor cell growth, though vitamin absorption can be affected.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Cholesterol Metabolism
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a leading cause of mortality in developed nations.
  • Elevated low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is a primary risk factor for CHD.
  • High-density-lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and a low LDL/HDL ratio are associated with cardiovascular protection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the cholesterol-lowering effects of plant sterols and stanols.
  • To explore the potential therapeutic applications of phytosterols in hypercholesterolemia.
  • To examine the influence of phytosterols on tumor cell behavior and nutrient absorption.

Main Methods:

  • Studies involving the administration of plant sterols and stanols derived from vegetable oils or wood pulp.
  • Analysis of serum lipid profiles to assess changes in total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol.
  • Investigation into the mechanism of cholesterol absorption inhibition in the intestine.

Main Results:

  • Plant sterols and stanols significantly reduce total and LDL cholesterol levels.
  • These compounds work by inhibiting cholesterol absorption from the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Phytosterols demonstrate potential effects on tumor cell proliferation and apoptosis.

Conclusions:

  • Plant sterols and stanols represent a promising therapeutic strategy for managing hypercholesterolemia.
  • Further research is warranted to fully understand the implications of phytosterols on cancer biology.
  • Potential interference with fat-soluble vitamin and carotenoid absorption requires consideration.

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