A New Approach

AtheroChem is at the forefront of discovering and developing molecules that modulate an unexploited, critically important, target called cholesteryl ester hydrolase (CEH). This enzyme is at the beginning of the reverse cholesterol transport pathway.

Companies developing compounds for the treatment of coronary artery disease and other conditions caused by atherosclerosis have focused on modulating different aspects of the reverse cholesterol transport pathway (RCTP) (see figure below). The RCTP encompasses various steps that move cholesterol from macrophage foam cells and out of atherosclerotic plaque. Important molecules such as apoA1, which is a constituent of high density lipoprotein carry cholesterol to organs including the liver for excretion. There are several companies developing agents that modulate various aspects of the RCTP.

AtheroChem’s small and large molecules significantly increase macrophage foam cell cholesterol efflux. This can be accomplished by directly increasing the activity of the intracellular enzyme, CEH.

CEH is the first step within the RCTP and has been suggested to be rate limiting.