Inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis by BM 15.766.

BM 15.766 (4-[2-[1-(4-chlorocinnamyl)piperazin-4-yl]ethyl]benzoic acid) showed a dose dependent action on 14C-acetate incorporation in cholesterol and intermediates including squalene by adult rat hepatocytes in primary monolayer culture. The biosynthesis of cholesterol could be reduced by more than 90%. Simultaneously, the 7-dehydrocholesterol level rose in the cells and, to a less marked extent, in the culture medium.