An international research team has made a significant discovery regarding the impact of cholesterol on heart function. Their research, published in May 2025, reveals that cholesterol accumulation in the mitochondria of heart cells disrupts energy production, a process that is vital for maintaining a healthy heart.
The researchers have developed an experimental immunotherapy that can reverse this damaging process. This innovative treatment uses monoclonal antibodies that target the LRP1 receptor, effectively blocking cholesterol from entering the mitochondria of heart cells. By preventing cholesterol buildup, the immunotherapy helps restore the structure and function of the mitochondria, which are responsible for generating energy within the cells.
Experiments have demonstrated that this immunotherapy reduces mitochondrial cholesterol levels and improves energy production in heart cells. This approach holds promise for treating cardiovascular diseases associated with cholesterol accumulation, offering a potential new avenue for combating heart conditions linked to metabolic dysfunction.