| abstract |
The present invention is directed to methods for stimulating low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) expression and low density lipoprotein (LDL) uptake. The method of the invention may be useful as a means of reducing the level of plasma cholesterol in an individual, and therefore may be useful in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. In a specific embodiment of the invention, the polypeptide Oncostatin M is used to rapidly stimulate LDL uptake by and LDLR expression in human hepatocytes. A basic mechanism by which Oncostatin M exerts these effects is disclosed. The invention encompasses the use of Oncostatin M, Oncostatin M analogs and Oncostatin M derivatives, whether used alone, in combination, or conjugated to other biologically active molecules or antibodies. |