Dihydromyricetin promotes LDL metabolism in HepG2 cells through the PCSK9/LDLR pathway

Low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) play a pivotal role by regulating plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) levels. Dihydromyricetin (DMY), the most abundant natural flavonoid in rattan tea, has proven anti-atherogenic effects, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Therefore, we studied the effects of DMY on LDLR and PCSK9. The results showed DMY promoted LDLR protein and mRNA expression and increased LDL uptake in HepG2 cells. DMY inhibited intracellular PCSK9 protein and mRNA expression. And it also significantly reduced PCSK9 levels in the cell culture medium. Furthermore, DMY inhibited the expression of PCSK9 through the liver nuclear transcription factor 1 A (HNF1A) and increased the protein expression of LDLR. Taken together, our results support the idea that DMY regulates LDL-c metabolism through PCSK9/LDLR signaling. This study reveals the potential mechanism of DMY’s anti-atherogenic effect and provides a theoretical basis for dietary DMY supplementation.