Understanding PCSK9 and anti-PCSK9 therapies

Inhibitors of proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) represent a new therapeutic category of drugs for the treatment of dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. To appreciate the efficacy of these agents and interpret research results, it is important to understand the dynamic relationship between PCSK9, low-density lipoprotein-receptors, intrahepatic cholesterol synthesis, and blood cholesterol levels. Drugs which negate the action of PCSK9 can produce substantial reductions in atherogenic lipoprotein cholesterol-carrying particles and thereby hold the potential for further reducing events associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This article will describe and discuss PCSK9 interactive mechanisms and apply them to the interpretation of clinical trial results, which involve PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies. (C) 2015 National Lipid Association. All rights reserved.