Effects of cholestyramine and squalene feeding on hepatic and serum plant sterols in the rat.

Hepatic and serum phytosterol concentrations were compared in the rat under basal conditions and during activated cholesterol and bile acid production due to squalene and cholestyramine feeding. Both treatments consistently decreased hepatic and serum levels of sitosterol and campesterol and, unlike esterified cholesterol, esterified plant sterols were not increased in liver during squalene feeding. Serum levels of phytosterols were decreased quite proportionately to those in the liver. The hepatic levels of sitosterol and campesterol closely correlated with each other, but not with cholesterol levels. The percentage esterification of both phytosterols was lower than that of cholesterol. The results indicate that activation of hepatic sterol production leads to depletion of hepatic plant sterols. It is suggested that poor esterification of plant sterols may contribute to this decrease.