The liver X receptor modulator 22(S)-hydroxycholesterol exerts cell-type specific effects on lipid and glucose metabolism

► 22(S)-hydroxycholesterol (22(S)-HC) affected liver X receptor-regulated processes differently in various human-derived cell types. ► 22(S)-HC decreased lipogenesis in myotubes and HepG2 cells while lipogenesis increased in SGBS cells. ► Exposure to 22(S)-HC increased glucose uptake in myotubes. ► Treatment with 22(S)-HC did not negatively influence cholesterol metabolism. ► The ability of 22(S)-HC to reduce ectopic lipid accumulation suggests a role in treatment of type 2 diabetes.