Compositions, methods, and systems for modifying sterol metabolism in a subject is disclosed. In some embodiments, the subjects may be administered one or more mammalian cells modified to express at least one sterol degrading enzyme derived from a bacterium. In many embodiments, the cell is a macrophage or monocyte stably expressing three or more enzymes that aid in opening the β ring of cholesterol. The disclosed compositions and methods may be useful in lowering cholesterol levels in a subject in need thereof. In some embodiments, the subject may have a genetic predisposition to atherosclerosis.
本发明揭示了用于修改主体的
甾醇代谢的组合物、方法和系统。在某些实施例中,可以向主体投与一种或多种经过改造的哺乳动物细胞,该细胞表达至少一种来自细菌的
甾醇降解酶。在许多实施例中,该细胞是稳定表达三种或更多有助于打开
胆固醇β环的酶的巨噬细胞或单核细胞。本发明所揭示的组合物和方法可用于降低需要降低
胆固醇水平的主体中的
胆固醇水平。在某些实施例中,该主体可能具有动脉粥样硬化的遗传易感性。