New Frontiers in Lp(a)-Targeted Therapies

Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2019 Mar;40(3):212-225. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2019.01.004. Epub 2019 Feb 4.

Abstract

Interest in lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] has exploded over the past decade with the emergence of genetic and epidemiological studies pinpointing elevated levels of this unique lipoprotein as a causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD). This review summarizes the most recent discoveries regarding therapeutic approaches to lower Lp(a) and presents these findings in the context of an emerging, although far from complete, understanding of the biosynthesis and catabolism of Lp(a). Application of Lp(a)-specific lowering agents to outcome trials will be the key to opening this new frontier in the battle against CVD.

Keywords: atherosclerosis; calcific aortic valve disease; drug therapy; lipoprotein(a).

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Aortic Valve / drug effects
  • Aortic Valve / pathology*
  • Aortic Valve Stenosis / blood*
  • Aortic Valve Stenosis / genetics
  • Aortic Valve Stenosis / therapy*
  • Atherosclerosis / blood*
  • Atherosclerosis / drug therapy
  • Atherosclerosis / genetics
  • Atherosclerosis / therapy*
  • Calcinosis / blood*
  • Calcinosis / genetics
  • Calcinosis / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Lipoprotein(a) / blood*
  • Lipoprotein(a) / genetics
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy

Substances

  • Lipoprotein(a)

Supplementary concepts

  • Aortic Valve, Calcification of

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