The effect of high cholesterol on neutrophils

Investigating pro-atherosclerotic low-density neutrophils in hypercholesterolemia   

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is vital for normal functions in the body. However, when levels of harmful forms of cholesterol are too high, it can lead to fatty deposits building up in our arteries. This can block the flow of blood and cause a heart attack or stroke. Immune cells present in the blood are important for fighting infections, but can also contribute to formation of these fatty deposits. Dr Kevin Woollard and his team believe that high cholesterol can activate a particular type of immune cells – called neutrophils – to promote these harmful processes. They will measure the amounts of these ‘activated’ neutrophils in the blood of healthy people and of those with high cholesterol. They will then study how high cholesterol affects the behaviour and function of neutrophils, and how this is related to formation of the fatty deposits. It’s not always possible to reduce cholesterol levels enough through diet and exercise, because our genes play a part too. By working to uncover the effects of cholesterol on neutrophils, this project could spotlight new ways to reduce the harmful effects of high cholesterol and help protect against heart attacks and strokes.