Guggulsterone as a dual-function steroidal scaffold: Cholesterol modulation and bioenhancement potential against 7-Ketocholesterol-Linked pathologies

Abstract

7-Ketocholesterol (7-KC), a cytotoxic cholesterol oxidation product, drives oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and metabolic disorders. Current lipid-lowering agents, such as statins, do not eliminate pre-formed oxysterols, highlighting an unmet therapeutic need. Guggulsterone(GGS), a steroidal phytoconstituent from Commiphora mukul, exhibits dual-function potential by reducing 7-KC formation through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and Nrf2-activating effects, while enhancing cholesterol efflux via LDLR and ABC transporters. Additionally, it improves endothelial and neuronal resilience to oxysterol-induced apoptosis. Guggulsterone’s amphiphilic nature supports its integration into nanocarriers, enabling co-delivery with therapeutics for synergistic effects. Advanced formulations such as SEDDS, nanoparticle co-encapsulation, and solid lipid nanoparticles enhance its bioavailability, stability, and tissue targeting, including brain delivery. These properties position guggulsterone as both a therapeutic agent and bioenhancer, offering a promising strategy to mitigate oxysterol burden and improve clinical outcomes in 7-KC–related disorders.