Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
8631779 Journal of Clinical and Translational Endocrinology: Case Reports 2016 4 Pages PDF
Abstract
Pharmacologic therapy reduces cardiovascular risk in a variety of primary and secondary prevention clinical situations in addition to lifestyle modifications. Low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a key mediator of atherogenesis. Most cholesterol guidelines propose specific LDL-C while recently the ACC/AHA recommends statin therapy without a specific LDL-C target. Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 (PCSK9) is a serine protease that leads to LDL receptor degradation. The decreased availability of LDL receptors results in decreased clearance and an increase of circulating LDL-C particles. Monoclonal antibodies that inhibit PCSK9 (PCSK9 abs) reduce LDL-C levels and may be especially helpful in familial hypercholesterolemia and statin-intolerant patients. PCSK9 inhibition is an exciting and promising new therapy for protection against macrovascular events.
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Life Sciences Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology Endocrinology
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