HDL-cholesterol increase in normolipaemic subjects on khellin: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Lipid Metabolism

Background:

• Khellin, a furochromone derived from Ammi visnaga, is investigated for its effects on plasma lipids.
• Dyslipidemia is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
• Understanding the impact of natural compounds on lipid profiles is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of khellin on plasma lipid concentrations in healthy male subjects.
• To assess changes in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)/HDL-C ratio.
• To determine the duration of khellin's effect on lipid profiles post-treatment.

Main Methods:

• A placebo-controlled study involving 20 non-obese, normolipaemic male subjects.
• Khellin administered at 50 mg four times daily for four weeks.
• Plasma lipids measured weekly and one week after treatment cessation.
• Plasma khellin levels used to monitor compliance.

Main Results:

• Plasma total cholesterol and triglycerides remained unchanged.
• HDL-cholesterol levels significantly increased during and after khellin treatment.
• The LDL-C/HDL-C ratio decreased, indicating a favorable shift in lipid profile.
• No significant effect on plasma lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) activity was observed.

Conclusions:

• Khellin treatment at 50 mg q.i.d. promotes a beneficial shift of cholesterol towards HDL.
• The observed increase in HDL-cholesterol and decrease in the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio were maintained for one week post-treatment.
• While effective, potential side effects like nausea, vomiting, and elevated liver enzymes (SGOT, SGPT) require consideration.