Removal of Oxidized Cholesterol by Probucol in Diabetics with Hypercholesterolemia

Abstract

Using gas chromatographic mass spectrometry, we identified cholesteryl-6 (2,6-di-tertialy butylphenol-4)-thioether (CT) in the urine of diabetics with hypercholesterolemia who were being treated with oral glibenclamide, 2.5 mg, and probucol, 500 mg/day. Presumably probucol was hydrolyzed to form 4-mercapto-2, 6-di-tertialy-butylphenol (MBP), the MBP reacted with cholesterol-5 α, 6 α-epoxide, oxidized cholesterol, and CT was then formed as a result of dehydration and condensation reactions. Probucol is expected to be useful in preventing diabetic macroangiopathy and removing oxidized cholesterol from the plasma into the urine. © 1994, THE JAPAN DIABETES SOCIETY. All rights reserved.