Oxy- and Phytosterols as Biomarkers: Current Status and Future Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Clinical Chemistry
• Biomarker Discovery

Background:

• Oxysterols and phytosterols are sterol compounds found at low levels in healthy individuals.
• Emerging evidence suggests their potential as biomarkers for various diseases and cholesterol absorption.
• Current studies often involve small populations, limiting routine biomarker application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the potential of oxysterols and phytosterols as disease and cholesterol absorption biomarkers.
• To identify the requirements for the routine clinical use of these sterols as biomarkers.
• To emphasize the need for standardized analytical methodologies and high-throughput platforms.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on oxysterol and phytosterol biomarker applications.
• Discussion of analytical challenges and requirements for routine use.
• Exploration of phytosterols as markers for cholesterol absorption and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk.

Main Results:

• Oxysterols show potential as biomarkers for cardiovascular, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancers.
• Phytosterols are valuable markers for cholesterol absorption.
• Standardization of analytical methods and development of high-throughput platforms are crucial for routine biomarker use.

Conclusions:

• Oxysterols and phytosterols hold significant promise as clinical biomarkers.
• Large prospective cohort studies and standardized, high-throughput analytical methods are essential for their widespread adoption.
• Integrating cholesterol metabolism screening into ASCVD risk assessments is recommended, particularly for high-risk individuals.