Cholesterol-d4 is deuterium labeled Cholesterol is also an endogenous estrogen-related receptor α (ERRα) agonist[3].
Stable heavy isotopes of drogen, carbon, and other elements have been incorporated into drug molecules, largely as tracers for quantitation during the drug development process. Deuteration has gained attention because of its potential to affect the pharmacokinetic and metabolic profiles of drugs[1].
[1]. Casaburi I, et al. Cholesterol as an Endogenous ERRα Agonist: A New Perspective to Cancer Treatment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2018 Sep 11;9:525.
[2]. Dietsc JM, et al. Thematic review series: brain Lipids. Cholesterol metabolism in the central nervous system during early development and in the mature animal. J Lipid Res. 2004 Aug;45(8):1375-97.
[3]. Fukui K, et al. Effect of Cholesterol Reduction on Receptor Signaling in Neurons. J Biol Chem. 2015 Sep 14.
[4]. Russak EM, et al. Impact of Deuterium Substitution on the Pharmacokinetics of Pharmaceuticals. Ann Pharmacother. 2019;53(2):211-216.