High-density lipoproteins: A promising tool against cancer

High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are well known for their protective role against the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Atheropmtection is mainly due to the key role of HDL within the reverse cholesterol transport, and to their ability to exert a series of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Through the same mechanisms HDL could also affect cancer cell proliferation and tumor progression. Many types of cancers share common alterations of cellular metabolism, including lipid metabolism. In this context, not only fatty acids but also cholesterol and its metabolites play a key role. HDL were shown to reduce cancer cell content of cholesterol, overall rewiring cholesterol homeostasis. In addition, HDL reduce oxidative stress and the levels of pro-inflammatory molecules in cancer cells and in the tumor microenvimnment (TME). Here, HDL can also help in reverting tumor immune escape and in inhibiting angiogenesis. Interestingly, HDL are good candidates for drug delivery, targeting antineoplastic agents to the tumor mass mainly through their binding to the scavenger receptor BI. Since they could affect cancer development and progression per se, HDL-based drug delivery systems may render cancer cells more sensitive to antitumor agents and reduce the development of drug resistance.

Automated summary

High-density lipoproteins (HDL) play a protective role against atherosclerosis and may also impact cancer cell proliferation and tumor progression. Through mechanisms such as reducing cancer cell cholesterol content and decreasing oxidative stress and inflammation, HDL can help inhibit cancer development.