a-drug-raises-hdl-particle-number-by-30-but-simultaneously-inhibits-the-hepatic-

Question

A drug raises HDL particle number by 30% but simultaneously inhibits the hepatic enzyme that converts cholesterol to bile acids, reducing bile secretion. Evaluate the likely net effect on arterial plaque progression.

Accepted Answer

Net effect may be limited or unfavorable: although more HDL picks up cholesterol, impaired hepatic conversion to bile reduces excretion, which could blunt or reverse the benefit on plaque regression.

Answer

Net effect will be a dramatic increase in bile production and plaque removal because HDL directly converts cholesterol to bile in circulation.

Answer

Net effect will be strongly protective because raising HDL particle number alone always guarantees plaque regression irrespective of hepatic processing.

Answer

Net effect will be an immediate reduction in blood pressure and complete elimination of atherosclerotic risk unrelated to cholesterol handling.