Why 7-ketocholesterol matters now: A rapid review of its pathogenic and therapeutic relevance.

7-Ketocholesterol (7-KC), a major oxysterol formed through cholesterol autoxidation, is increasingly recognized as a pathogenic mediator in ageing and chronic disease. Detected in atherosclerotic plaques, Alzheimer's cortex, aged retina, and lysosomal storage disorders, 7-KC actively drives oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, organelle dysfunction, and oxiapoptophagy. These mechanisms underpin its role in cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and metabolic pathologies. Recent advances highlight nutritional antioxidants, pharmacological agents, microbial bioremediation, and nanotechnology as promising therapeutic avenues. Recognizing 7-KC as both a biomarker and therapeutic target offers opportunities for innovation in diagnostics and treatment of age-related and inflammatory disorders.