Abstract
Recent research in genetics has revealed that PCSK9 - which codes for proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) - plays a major role in cholesterol regulatory pathways. Normal genetic variations in PCSK9 have a great impact on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and hence the risk of cardio-vascular disease. This has led to huge efforts in inhibiting PCSK9. Recent clinical phase II trials with monoclonal antibodies against PCSK9 have shown great results for lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels making the inhibition of PCSK9 a promising target in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
MeSH terms
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Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
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Antibodies, Monoclonal / pharmacology
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Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
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Anticholesteremic Agents / adverse effects
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Anticholesteremic Agents / pharmacology
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Anticholesteremic Agents / therapeutic use
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Cardiovascular Diseases / prevention & control
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Cholesterol, LDL / blood
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Cholesterol, LDL / metabolism
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Humans
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Hypercholesterolemia / blood
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Hypercholesterolemia / drug therapy*
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Proprotein Convertase 9
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Proprotein Convertases / antagonists & inhibitors*
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Proprotein Convertases / metabolism
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Serine Endopeptidases / metabolism
Substances
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Antibodies, Monoclonal
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Anticholesteremic Agents
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Cholesterol, LDL
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PCSK9 protein, human
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Proprotein Convertase 9
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Proprotein Convertases
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Serine Endopeptidases