New genetiv factor discovered for high cholesterol levels

Working with scientists from the University of Aarhus in Denmark, MDC researchers have uncovered a new genetic basis for high cholesterol levels. In their study, the MDC team led by Professor Thomas Willnow identified a specific cholesterol-regulating gene called SORT1. People with the active variant of SORT1 have higher cholesterol levels than those with the less active gene variant. According to the MDC researchers, the liver protein sortilin, which is encoded by the gene, could be a good point of attack for more targeted drug treatments for patients with high cholesterol levels.

Nicole Silbermann