IIT Kanpur Unveils Insights for Safer Cholesterol Treatments; Check Details Here

The Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering at IIT Kanpur has made discoveries in comprehending the molecular mechanisms through which cholesterol-reducing medications, such as Niacin, operate. Know complete details here 

A study conducted by the Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has revealed insights into the molecular workings of cholesterol-lowering medications such as Niacin. By leveraging advanced cryogenic-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) technology, Professor Arun K. Shukla and his team succeeded in imaging the crucial receptor molecule that Niacin and similar drugs activate. This significant research, which could pave the way for creating new cholesterol-lowering drugs with reduced adverse effects, has been featured in the esteemed global publication, Nature Communications.

Prof. Arun K. Shukla of the Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, IIT Kanpur said, "Niacin is a commonly prescribed drug to lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing good cholesterol. However, in many patients, the drug causes side effects such as skin redness and itching, referred to as a flushing response. This leads to patients stopping their treatment with adverse effects on their cholesterol levels."

The Hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 2 (HCA2), also known as the niacin receptor or GPR109A is a type of receptor in the human body that helps stop fat-related and artery-clogging processes. When it is activated, it can also make the blood vessels widen, which is why some cholesterol-lowering drugs like niacin lead to some patients experiencing a red, flushing skin reaction.

Prof. S. Ganesh, Director, IIT Kanpur said, "This is an important breakthrough as it deepens our understanding of drug-receptor interactions and opens new avenues for the design of better therapeutic agents. This achievement exemplifies our dedication to addressing real-world health challenges through innovation and excellence in research. The acceptance of the research for publication is a testament to the quality and high standards of R&D at IIT Kanpur."

The study, supported by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) and spearheaded by Prof. Arun K Shukla at IIT Kanpur, involved Dr. Manish Yadav, Ms. Parishmita Sarma, Mr. Jagannath Maharana, Mr. Manisankar Ganguly, Ms. Sudha Mishra, Ms. Annu Dalal, Mr. Nashrah Zaidi, Mr. Sayantan Saha, Ms. Gargi Mahajan, Mr. Vinay Singh, Ms. Saloni Sharma, and Dr. Ramanuj Banerjee.

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