Oncostatin M for stimulating LDL uptake and LDL receptor expression

摘要

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.