Pathogenic role of 25-hydroxycholesterol in cancer development and progression

Cholesterol is an essential lipid that serves several important functions, including maintaining the homeostasis of cells, acting as a precursor to bile acid and steroid hormones and preserving the stability of membrane lipid rafts. 25-hydroxycholesterol (25-HC) is a cholesterol derivative that may be formed from cholesterol. 25-HC is a crucial component in various biological activities, including cholesterol metabolism. In recent years, growing evidence has shown that 25-HC performs a critical function in the etiology of cancer, infectious diseases and autoimmune disorders. This review will summarize the latest findings regarding 25-HC, including its biogenesis, immunomodulatory properties and role in innate/adaptive immunity, inflammation and the development of various types of cancer.