A groundbreaking study led by researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur's Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering has shed light on the molecular mechanisms behind cholesterol-lowering drugs like Niacin.

Leveraging cutting-edge cryogenic-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) technology, the team, headed by Prof. Arun K. Shukla, successfully visualized the key target receptor molecule activated by Niacin and similar drugs. Published in the esteemed international journal, Nature Communications, the research holds promise for the development of new cholesterol-lowering drugs with reduced side effects.

Prof. Arun K. Shukla emphasized the significance of the study, stating, "Niacin is widely prescribed to combat elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels, but its use often leads to adverse effects such as skin flushing. By elucidating the interaction between the receptor molecule GPR109A and Niacin at the molecular level, our research lays the groundwork for designing safer and more effective drugs."

The Hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 2 (HCA2), also known as the niacin receptor or GPR109A, plays a pivotal role in halting fat-related and artery-clogging processes within the body. Activation of this receptor can also result in vasodilation, explaining the flushing reaction experienced by some patients undergoing cholesterol-lowering treatment.

Prof. Shukla further elaborated, "Understanding the intricacies of drug-receptor interactions not only paves the way for improved cholesterol-lowering therapies but also holds promise for developing treatments for conditions like multiple sclerosis."

Prof. S. Ganesh, Director of IIT Kanpur, hailed the study as a significant breakthrough that underscores the institution's commitment to addressing real-world health challenges through groundbreaking research. He commended the team's dedication and the high standards of research excellence at IIT Kanpur, noting the importance of the study's acceptance for publication.

Supported by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), the study involved a collaborative effort led by Prof. Arun K. Shukla, alongside researchers Dr. Manish Yadav, Ms. Parishmita Sarma, Mr. Jagannath Maharana, Mr. Manisankar Ganguly, Ms. Sudha Mishra, Ms. Annu Dalal, Mr. Nashrah Zaidi, Mr. Sayantan Saha, Ms. Gargi Mahajan, Mr. Vinay Singh, Ms. Saloni Sharma, and Dr. Ramanuj Banerjee.