Abstract This essay reviews the article "Altered cholesterol metabolism in Niemann-Pick type C1 mouse brains affects mitochondrial function" published in J. Biol. Chem. This paper provides a short overview of the significance of cholesterol and past published results. After the results of the research from the title article are presented, the further research ideas are given.
From the Paper "Cholesterol is a sterols, a member of very important group of lipid alcohols. It can be found in the tissues of all vertebrates, but it only rarely occurs in considerable quantities in higher plants. The most common sterolss in the plant membranes are stigmasterols and b-sitosterols. Their structures are similar to that of cholesterol. The major difference is the structure of the aliphatic side chain bonded to the fused rings. Cholesterol's excess is generally associated with the formation of the plaques in the arteries, which cause them to clog. "
Abstract In this paper the author starts with a summary of the dangers of high cholesterol and identifies the diseases it can contribute to. He then proceeds to discuss the different types of high cholesterol that there are such as HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or CHD (coronary heart disease) and what the acceptable levels of cholesterol are. The paper then analyzes which treatments are available and in what instances they can be used. Finally the paper looks at the benefits of a change in lifestyle which can help treat high cholesterol and also the drug programs that are available. The paper concludes with a statement that the ATP 111 guidelines are for all adults not just for adults under the age of 65 years.
Table of Contents
Introduction
HDL Cholesterol CHD Equivalents
Treatment
Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes
Drug Therapy
Conclusion
From the Paper "TLC includes diet, physical action, and weight loss. ATP III persist to strain the significance of nonpharmacologic healing however be familiar with its confines by dropping the examination of these modalities from six months to 12 weeks prior to taking into consideration the use of medications to help in achieving optional LDL goals. In addition, the composition of the diet has been customized. One diet is suggested for all patients, as contrasting to the two-step diet suggested in the preceding guidelines. The ATP III suggests the totaling of plant stanols (hydrogenated phytosterols) to the patient's diet when early on attempts to change the diet have not resulted in reaching the LDL purpose."
Abstract Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of mortality in the industrialized world. At the same time, high blood cholesterol is known to be a risk factor for heart disease. Decreasing total blood cholesterol can have a profound effect, reducing the incidence of coronary heart disease by close to 30%. Further, there is a wide variety of research that links blood cholesterol levels to heart disease and mortality. This paper presents a design for a study that aims to add to this body of evidence by investigating the impact of decreased cholesterol consumption on mortality from cardiovascular disease.
From the Paper "In each facility, 1,000 research subjects will be recruited using voluntary recruitment procedures. Advertisements for volunteers will be placed in local newspapers, community message boards, and clinic and emergency waiting rooms. Subjects will range in age upwards from 21 years of age. Subjects will not be excluded from the study on any medical or other grounds. This wide range of subjects and large sample size will allow researchers to correlate cholesterol intake with a number of other factors, including age, sex, race, place of residence, and other medical conditions."
Abstract This paper reviews medical literature to explain what LDL is and why doctors believe high LDL cholesterol can lead to coronary heart disease. The paper begins by explaining what high cholesterol is and how it is diagnosed and then takes a look at how it can be prevented and treated. The paper describes the various approaches to treating the problem of high cholesterol and points out that there are a number of alternatives to treating the problem other than using Statins, which have deleterious effects.
Table of Contents
Introduction
What is Cholesterol?
Diagnosis
Prevention vs. Treatment
Conclusion
From the Paper "If we watch regular television programming on any consistent basis, eventually we will hear about the benefits of Lipitor or Pravachol for reducing our cholesterol. The advertisements are interesting because on one hand they show either a very physically fit, slim and attractive middle age man or woman who is the object of great admiration. However, the ads inform us that these individuals also have what could be dangerously high cholesterol. They demonstrate how deceptive the models' perfect physicality is by having these poised models either belly flop into a pool or fall on their face in the middle of a Hollywood premier. With these displays of physical frailty, the advertisers tell us no "body" is perfect and that if the models used the advertiser's medicine their health could be perfect. The sequence closes with the words millions of people have high cholesterol and do not know it. To protect themselves legally, the advertiser has an announcer speaking at a rate of over 200 words a minute then explains all the negative side-effects of the medication at the end of the commercial."
Tags: low, density, lipid, lowering, medicine, educate, general, public, effects, general, health
Abstract Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains the leading single cause of death in the United States today and elevated serum cholesterol is widely recognized as being the risk factor responsible for myocardial infarction and CHD death. This paper examines how, although coronary heart disease (CHD) is a complex, multifaceted health problem, there has been increased attention focused on dietary cholesterol and saturated fats as factors that also contribute to elevated blood cholesterol levels. It proposes a study based on the hypothesis that high cholesterol can be genetic, anatomically induced and does not always involve poor eating choices.
Outline
Chapter 1: Introduction
Background and Significance
Chapter 2: Review of the Literature
Chapter 3: Methodology
Chapter 4 : Results and Conclusions
From the Paper "High blood pressure and elevated lipids represent a lethal combination; in fact, it has been estimated that fully 80 percent of those with hypertension also have high cholesterol levels (or hypercholesterolemia) and that 50 percent of these individuals will require some type of medication in order to lower their cholesterol to safe levels (Griffith & Wood, 1997). According to these authors, "For the most part, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are connected by a common denominator: poor lifestyle choices. Both diseases are more prevalent in sedentary and obese persons, and tobacco users" (Griffith & Wood, p. 240). High cholesterol levels are particularly dangerous for people with high blood pressure because excess cholesterol in the blood can become trapped in the crevices of arteries that have been damaged by chronic hypertension."
Abstract In this article, the writer looks at the molecular biology of the cholesterol transport from arterial walls to the liver for biliary excretion. The paper looks at all the genes and their agonists and antagonists involved - LXR, PPAR, ABCA1, apoE, oxysterols, cholesterol metabolites etc. The writer then discusses how they all work together to transport cholesterol from the arterial walls in order to minimize atherosclerosis.
From the Paper "Atherosclerosis is a form of arteriosclerosis in which plaque builds up in the inner linings of the arteries. Plaque consists of a combination of fatty substances, cholesterol waste products from cells fibrin and calcium and usually develops in medium and large arteries, thickening their walls and causing them to lose elasticity and so become less resilient. Atheromatous plaques build up in vessel walls and in advanced stages reduce or restrict blood flow through the vessel lumen. The inner covering of the atheroma may ... "
Abstract This paper discusses fats in the diet of human beings and how they relate to cholesterol. It looks at the reasons why fats are a necessary part of our diet and also looks at the positive aspects of cholesterol. The paper then focuses on physical ailments and disorders that are associated with an imbalance in any of these. Finally, the paper discusses how we can mitigate and reverse the effects of too much fat and how to lead to a healthy diet and lifestyle.
From the Paper "Fats are a necessary part of our diet. They are necessary for organ function, the protection of the body, and for energy storage and vitamin processing. Cholesterol is also necessary (both HDL and LDL). But, there are a host of physical ailments and disorders that are associated with an imbalance in any of these. Too little fat and the cells fail to function, too much and obesity, CVD and diabetes occur. Too little cholesterol and the body can't transport blood-borne nutrients, too much and the veins get clogged and heart attack and stroke follow. By increasing the amount of Omega-3 fatty acids and reducing saturated and trans-fats, by increasing exercise and taking beneficial supplements where appropriate, it is then possible for people to mitigate and reverse the effects of too much fat, and to lead to a healthy diet and lifestyle."
This paper details the results of clinical test data which prove that by properly lowering blood cholesterol levels in patients age 65 and older they'll receive similar benefits to those of much younger adults.
Abstract This paper details the morbidity and mortality risks of coronary heart disease in elderly patients. The writer stresses the importance of proper treatment and deterrence which is fundamental to developing the length and worth of life for the geriatric residents at large. The results of the clinical test data in this paper have confirmed that patients age 65 and older receive similar advantage from blood cholesterol decline as younger adults. Drug therapy in this populace, while safe, necessitates cautious surveillance and dose modification due to potentially distorted drug metabolism and concomitant medications.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Assessment and Diagnosis
Treatment
Combination Therapy
Conclusion
Resources
From the Paper "The cholesterol that builds up in atherosclerotic lesions starts off principally from plasma lipoproteins, predominantly low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Continuous hypercholesterolemia results in optimistic cholesterol equilibrium at the vascular interface, with more lipoprotein-bound cholesterol entering than exiting the arterial wall. This directed net invasion of lipoprotein-bound cholesterol into the vascular arterial intima speeds up the development of atherosclerosis. Oxidation of LDL-C in the subendothelial layers of the arterial wall, which can be shaped by triggered endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, or monocytes/macrophages, appears to be a key irreversible event in the atherogenic process. As an atherosclerotic lesion develops below an intact layer of endothelial cells, macrophages may discharge toxic products, including superoxide anions, cytokines, and proteolytic enzymes, which can lead to endothelial dysfunction."
Tags: health, cardiac, geriatric, elderly, medicine, treatment, study
Abstract This paper discusses the role that DNA plays in the aging process. The author looks at several studies that have been conducted over the years that look at how different types of drugs and disease affect the aging process. Some of the studies involved a look at such issues as cholesterol and the effects of cholesterol-lowering drugs on both the human and animal populations. The paper also looks at Vitamin K, the loss of DNA from the human heart as a person ages, how a person's alcohol and tobacco use affect their longevity. In all of these cases, the paper looks at both the male and female populations in order to illustrate how all of these different aspects affect an individual's DNA and as a result, their life expectancy.
From the Paper "The third category, accretional defects, results from the accumulation of waste materials composed of nonfunctioning of poorly functioning parts of the body system during aging. These involve the liver and kidneys. The human liver must absorb 70% of the dysfunction before they appear in routine blood tests (Strehler), since it is one of the many jobs of the liver to remove bilirubin from the blood. (Bilirubin is a natural by-product of red blood cells at the end of their life cycle.) A high-level bilirubin translates into jaundice and is harmful to the brain if high levels accumulate in the blood. But if the liver's own removal cells are malfunctioning, bilirubin accumulates in the blood and damages the person's overall health. (Strehler). The kidneys are even hardier : 90% of them must sustain the damage and be damaged themselves before abnormalities are detected in blood tests of kidney function (Strehler). This means a person may have kidney trouble for many years without knowing it, only until his or her kidneys are 90% damaged, during which the signs of illness begin to show."
Abstract This paper begins by explaining that coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death in many countries and that one of the main risk factors associated with CHD is high cholesterol. The paper shows how cholesterol levels are determined and what can be done to lower the risk. Included in this paper is a behavioural modification plan and tips for a healthier lifestyle that is free of the risk factors associated with CHD.
From the Paper "Cholesterol forms an important function in the body; it helps to produce hormones, vitamins and some bile acids. Located in the bloodstream, cholesterol is present in many parts of the body including the brain, skin, liver and muscle tissue. However cholesterol can be lethal; high amounts in the bloodstream can lead to a build up of cholesterol and plaques (fatty deposits) on arterial walls which then narrow arteries and may result in inadequate blood circulation to the heart muscle (coronary heart disease)."
Abstract This paper describes the different types of lipoproteins, their composition and their role in cholesterol metabolism including reverse cholesterol transport. It includes a table about the various lipoproteins, their apolipoproteins, size, composition and mechanism of delivery. It also includes a schematic diagram showing the metabolism of lipoproteins.
From the Paper "Based on their density as determined by ultracentrifugation, there are five major types of lipoproteins in the human blood, called chylomicrons, very low density lipoproteins (VLDL), intermediate density lipoproteins (IDL), low density lipoproteins (LDL), and high density lipoproteins (HDL) (Berneis and Krauss, 2002). The lipoproteins have different protein and lipid composition, sizes and physiological and pathological functions, as shown in Table 1. Chylomicrons, which consist mainly of triglycerides, redistribute dietary lipids that are absorbed in the intestine while the liver secretes lipids in the form of VLDL that serves for the extrahepatic deposition of free fatty acids after being processed enzymatically (Narayanaswami and Ryan, 2000)."
Tags: apolipoprotein, cholesterol, lipoprotein, reverse, transport
"Lipids are hydrocarbons that are found in living systems in the environment. The main classes of lipids are triglycerides, waxes, steroids, phospholipids, gylcolipids, and sphingolipids (Glanze). The simplest lipid, which makes up the backbone of all of these, is the fatty acid (see page 2). The main characteristics that separate the different kinds of lipids are the derivatives, such as acids, alcohols, amines, amino alcohols, and aldehydes, found on the end of the hydrocarbons and their solubility in water. Most lipids are non polar and there for are not soluble in water but instead in fat solvents such as ether, chloroform, and benzene. From these two basic distinctions, there are dozens of possible lipids that can be formed in nature and synthetically (Cooper)."
Abstract When it comes to nutrition, terms like carbohydrate, lipid, monosaccharides, protein and cholesterol can sound almost like a foreign language. With all the conflicting reports of what affects ones body and what does harm, it is no wonder that people are so confused. The paper shows, however, that the importance of these substances is so vital that by understanding what they are, as well as how they are used by our bodies can certainly benefit our health and overall well being.
From the Paper "By definition, a carbohydrate is group of chemical compounds that exist when hydrogen and oxygen (H2O) are then combined with carbon (Ed., Encarta). Carbohydrates are the largest group of organic compounds found in nature (Encarta). Humans, animals, plants and bacteria all use carbohydrates, and the uses for them varies depending on the organism using them. Plants use them for structural uses ? as in the cellulose and hemicellulose that are their main structural elements (Encarta). The cell coatings of the connective tissues in vertebrate animals have carbohydrates in them; both animals and plants use various forms of carbohydrates to store energy (Encarta). Chitin is a carbohydrate, and is the primary ingredient for the exoskeleton of invertebrate animals (Encarta)."
Abstract This paper tests the hypothesis if the blood levels of individuals with genetically linked hypercholesterolemia, who have already had their LDL cholesterol lowered by this latter drug therapy, will see increased results if Xenical is added to their drug regime. The author points out that the research will be conducted on 100 male and 100 female because men and women have historically been shown to react differently to a range of medications. The paper states that, because the subjects are randomly selected, and the subject pool is a relatively large one, this quantitative study should be generalizable beyond this particular group of individuals. Questionnaire included.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Literature Review
Methodology
Rights of Human Subjects
Null Hypothesis
Limitations of the Study
From the Paper "Before discussing the specific hypothesis that this research is designed to test, it will be useful to define some of the key terms that are being used in this research. To understand why high levels of bad cholesterol are indeed bad it is important to understand the basic chemistry of the substances involved. Lipids may be characterized as the "building blocks" of the fats (or some related fatty substances) that are found in living organisms (both plants and animals). In animals, lipids, which serve as sources of energy for the individual, are composed mostly of cholesterol; and riglycerides; a form of protein called lipoproteins; and phospholipids, which are molecules comprised of phosphoric acid, along with nitrogen and fatty acids. Lipoproteins can be divided into five different types, arranged by both their size and density; they are also commonly divided by whether they carry cholesterol or triglycerides. Those lipoproteins that carry cholesterol are themselves commonly referred to as cholesterol."
