Inverse correlation between plasma oxysterol and LDL-cholesterol levels in hepatitis C virus-infected patients

Background: Hepatitis C virus infection is characterised by enhanced oxidative stress, which can be measured quantitatively by plasma oxysterol concentration. These molecules may affect lipid metabolism through the activation of Liver X Receptors. Hepatitis C virus exploits host lipid metabolism to facilitate its replication and diffusion. In our study we aimed to evaluate and highlight the potential pathogenetic role of oxysterols, 7-ketocholesterol and 7-β-hydroxycholesterol, in hepatitis C virus-related lipid dysmetabolism. Methods: The study was performed in 42 patients with chronic hepatitis C (93% genotype 1b) and 38 non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients. Plasma oxysterols 7-keto…