Revealing the role of high-density lipoprotein in colorectal cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly prevalent malignancy with multifactorial etiology,which includes metabolic alterations as contributors to disease development. Studies have shownthat lipid status disorders are involved in colorectal carcinogenesis. In line with this, previous studieshave also suggested that the serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level decreases inpatients with CRC, but more recently, the focus of investigations has shifted toward the explorationof qualitative properties of HDL in this malignancy. Herein, a comprehensive overview of availableevidences regarding the putative role of HDL in CRC will be presented. We will analyze existingfindings regarding alterations of HDL-C levels but also HDL particle structure and distribution inCRC. In addition, changes in HDL functionality in this malignancy will be discussed. Moreover,we will focus on the genetic regulation of HDL metabolism, as well as the involvement of HDL indisturbances of cholesterol trafficking in CRC. Finally, possible therapeutic implications related toHDL will be presented. Given the available evidence, future studies are needed to resolve all raisedissues concerning the suggested protective role of HDL in CRC, its presumed function as a biomarker,and eventual therapeutic approaches based on HDL.