Hepatic acylcoenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase activity is low in hamsters fed apples in addition to a standard diet.

Abstract

The effect of consumption of apples as a supplement to a standard diet on hepatic acylcoenzyme A: cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT) activity was investigated in adult golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). The experimental diet was given for 2 months. IN response to the high-fruit intake, the level of cholesteryl esters was reduced in the liver, and hepatic ACAT activity, determined in vitro under various conditions of incubation, was lowered by about 30%. Moreover, plasma cholesterol was redistributed among the lipoproteins, with a decrease in the cholesterol transported in the ApoB-rich lipoproteins.