Inclisiran administration potently and durably lowers LDL-C over an extended-term follow-up: the ORION-8 trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Data describing the long-term efficacy, safety, and tolerability of inclisiran are limited. This was explored in ORION-8, an open-label extension study of preceding Phase 2 and Phase 3 placebo-controlled and open-label extension trials.

METHODS

Adults with ASCVD, ASCVD risk equivalent, or HeFH received open-label inclisiran every 180 days (after completion of the parent trial) until Day 990, followed by an end-of-study (EOS) visit at Day 1080 or ≥90 days after last dose. Study endpoints included proportion of patients achieving pre-specified LDL-C goals (ASCVD: <1.8 mmol/L [<70 mg/dL]; ASCVD risk equivalent: <2.6 mmol/L [<100 mg/dL]), percentage and absolute changes in LDL-C at EOS, and safety of inclisiran.

RESULTS

Of 3274 patients included in the analysis, 2446 (74.7%) were followed until EOS. Mean age was 64.9±9.9 years, 82.7% (n=2709) had ASCVD, and mean baseline LDL-C was 2.9±1.2 mmol/L. Mean cumulative exposure to inclisiran (including parent trials) was 3.7 years; maximum exposure was 6.8 years. With inclisiran, 78.4% (95% CI: 76.8, 80.0) of patients achieved pre-specified LDL-C goals and mean percentage LDL-C reduction was -49.4% (95% CI: -50.4, -48.3). No attenuation of LDL-C lowering over time was observed. Treatment-emergent adverse events at the injection site (all mild or moderate) occurred in 5.9% of inclisiran-treated patients. Inclisiran-associated anti-drug antibodies were infrequent (5.5%) and had no impact on the efficacy or safety of inclisiran. No new safety signals were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

In the largest and longest follow-up to date, inclisiran demonstrated sustained and substantial LDL-C lowering with a favourable long-term safety and tolerability profile. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03814187.

Premorbid lipid levels and long-term risk of ALS-a population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the temporal relationship between premorbid lipid levels and long-term amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) risk.

METHODS

From Norwegian cardiovascular health surveys (1974-2003), we collected information on total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), glucose, and other cardiovascular risk factors. ALS incidence and mortality were identified through validated Norwegian health registries. The relation between premorbid lipid levels and ALS risk was assessed by Cox regression models.

RESULTS

Out of 640,066 study participants (51.5% females), 974 individuals (43.5% females) developed ALS. Mean follow-up time was 23.7 (SD 7.1) years among ALS cases. One mmol/l increase in LDL-C was associated with 6% increase in risk for ALS (hazard ratio 1.06 [95% CI: 1.01-1.09]). Higher levels of TC and TG were also associated with increased ALS risk, but only within the last 6-7 years prior to ALS diagnosis or death. No association between HDL-C and ALS risk was found. Adjusting for body mass index, birth cohort, smoking, and physical activity did not alter the results.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher levels of LDL-C are associated with increased ALS risk over 40 years later, compatible with a causal relationship. The temporal relationship between TG, TC, and ALS risk suggests that increased levels of these lipid biomarkers represent consequences of ALS.

Influence of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels on NSAID-Associated Cardiovascular Risks After Myocardial Infarction: A Population-Based Cohort Study

Aim

To examine whether low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels influence the cardiovascular risk associated with non-aspirin non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use after myocardial infarction (MI).

Methods

Using Danish health registries, we conducted a population-based cohort study of all adult patients with first-time MI during 2010-2020 with an LDL-C value before discharge. Based on the latest LDL-C value, we categorized patients into a low and a high LDL-C group (<3.0 vs ≥3.0 mmol/L). We used time varying Cox regression to compute hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals of the association between NSAID use and a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE: recurrent MI, ischemic stroke, and all-cause death).

Results

We followed 50,573 patients for a median of 3.1 years. While exposed, 521 patients experienced a MACE: 312 in the low LDL-C group and 209 in the high LDL-C group. The HRs for MACE comparing NSAID use with non-use were 1.21 (1.11-1.32) overall, 1.19 (1.06-1.33) in the low LDL-C group, and 1.23 (1.07-1.41) in the high LDL-group. The HRs for recurrent MI and ischemic stroke were comparable between the LDL-C subgroups. The HRs for all-cause death were 1.22 (1.07-1.39) in the low LDL-C group and 1.54 (1.30-1.83) in the high LDL-C group. Changing the cut-off value for LDL-C to 1.8 and 1.4 mmol/L showed consistent results.

Conclusion

In patients with MI, LDL-C levels did not influence the increased risk of MACE associated with NSAID use, but might influence the association between NSAID use and all-cause death.

A new equation for estimating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration based on machine learning

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a crucial marker of cardiovascular system damage. In the Chinese population, the estimation of LDL-C concentration by Friedewald, Martin-Hopkins or Sampson equations is not accurate. The aim of this study was to develop a group of new equations for calculating LDL-C concentration using machine learning techniques and to evaluate their efficacy. A total of 182,901 patient samples were collected with standard lipid panel measurements. These samples were collated and randomly divided into a training set and a test set. In the training set, a new equation was constructed using polynomial ridge-regression and compared to the Friedewald, Martin/Hopkins and extended Martin/Hopkins, or Sampson equations in the test set. Subsequently, an additional set of 17,285 patient samples were collected to evaluate the performance of the new equation in clinical practice. The new equation, a ternary cubic equation, was accurate and easy to use, with a goodness-of-fit R2 of 0.9815 and an uncertainty MSE of 37.4250 on the testing set. The difference between the calculated value by the new equation and the measured value of LDL-C was small (0.0424 ± 5.1161 vs Friedewald equation: -13.3647 ± 17.9198, vs Martin/Hopkins and extended Martin/Hopkins equation: -6.4737 ± 8.1036, vs Sampson equation: -8.9252 ± 12.6522, P < .001). It could accurately calculate LDL-C concentration even at high triglyceride and low LDL-C. Furthermore, the new equation could also precisely calculate LDL-C concentration in actual clinical use (R2 = 0.9780, MSE = 24.8482). The new equation developed in this study can accurately calculate LDL-C concentration within the full concentration range of triglyceride and LDL-C, and can serve as a supplement to the direct determination of LDL-C concentration for the prevention, treatment, evaluation, and monitoring of atherosclerotic diseases, compared to the Friedewald, Martin/Hopkins and extended Martin/Hopkins, or Sampson equations.

An "Inclisiran First" Strategy vs Usual Care in Patients With Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

BACKGROUND

Most patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease fail to achieve guideline-directed low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goals. Twice-yearly inclisiran lowers LDL-C by ∼50% when added to statins.

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the effectiveness of an "inclisiran first" implementation strategy (adding inclisiran immediately upon failure to reach LDL-C <70 mg/dL despite receiving maximally tolerated statins) vs representative usual care in U.S. patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

VICTORION-INITIATE, a prospective, pragmatically designed trial, randomized patients 1:1 to inclisiran (284 mg at days 0, 90, and 270) plus usual care (lipid management at treating physician's discretion) vs usual care alone. Primary endpoints were percentage change in LDL-C from baseline and statin discontinuation rates.

RESULTS

We randomized 450 patients (30.9% women, 12.4% Black, 15.3% Hispanic); mean baseline LDL-C was 97.4 mg/dL. The "inclisiran first" strategy led to significantly greater reductions in LDL-C from baseline to day 330 vs usual care (60.0% vs 7.0%; P < 0.001). Statin discontinuation rates with "inclisiran first" (6.0%) were noninferior vs usual care (16.7%). More "inclisiran first" patients achieved LDL-C goals vs usual care (<70 mg/dL: 81.8% vs 22.2%; <55 mg/dL: 71.6% vs 8.9%; P < 0.001). Treatment-emergent adverse event (TEAE) and serious TEAE rates compared similarly between treatment strategies (62.8% vs 53.7% and 11.5% vs 13.4%, respectively). Injection-site TEAEs and TEAEs causing treatment withdrawal occurred more commonly with "inclisiran first" than usual care (10.3% vs 0.0% and 2.6% vs 0.0%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

An "inclisiran first" implementation strategy led to greater LDL-C lowering compared with usual care without discouraging statin use or raising new safety concerns. (A Randomized, Multicenter, Open-label Trial Comparing the Effectiveness of an "Inclisiran First" Implementation Strategy to Usual Care on LDL Cholesterol [LDL-C] in Patients With Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease and Elevated LDL-C [≥70 mg/dL] Despite Receiving Maximally Tolerated Statin Therapy [VICTORION-INITIATE]; NCT04929249).

The Relationship Between Serum Lipids and the Formation of Colorectal Polyps

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Obesity, metabolic syndrome, and hyperlipidemia are known as risk factors for colorectal tumors. Colorectal polyps are accepted as potential precursors of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study was designed to clarify the association between the levels of serum lipids and the presence of colorectal polyps.

METHODS

This study was conducted at Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, Gastroenterological Surgery Clinic, Istanbul, Turkey. We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent colonoscopy with serum lipid profile within one month for a one-year period. Groups were analyzed in terms of the correlation between hyperlipidemia and the formation of polyps. The study group was also evaluated in terms of the polyp type, localization, and number.

RESULTS

Among 453 patients, females were 248 and males were 211, with a mean age of 56.7. The study and control groups involved 259 and 194 patients, respectively. The age and serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG) were found to be statistically significant in terms of polyp presence and number (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Colorectal polyps are well-known precursors of CRC. We found that the combination of elevated serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides may be a risk predictor for the presence of colorectal polyps, which can be advantageous in cancer screening.

The Effect of Sn-2 Palmitate on Blood Glucose, Lipids and Body Composition in Middle-Aged and Elderly Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blinded Controlled Trial

Sn-2 palmitate is widely used in infant formula. However, little is known about its effects on metabolism and body composition in middle-aged and elderly adults. In a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial, we enrolled Chinese adults aged 45-75 years with self-reported constipation. Individuals were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to a 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoyl-glycerol (OPO)-enriched oil (66% palmitic acid in the sn-2 position) or a control vegetable oil (24% palmitic acid in the sn-2 position) daily for 24 weeks. Skim milk powder was used as the carrier for both fats. Interviews and body composition were performed at baseline, week 4, week 12 and week 24. A fasting blood draw was taken except at week 4. This study was a secondary analysis and considered exploratory. A total of 111 adults (83 women and 28 men, mean age 64.2 ± 7.0 years) were enrolled, of whom 53 were assigned to the OPO group and 57 to the control group. During the intervention, blood glucose, triglyceride, the triglyceride-glucose index, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and remnant cholesterol remained stable, while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased in both groups (p = 0.003). No differences in change were observed between the groups (all p > 0.05). From baseline to week 24, the level of visceral fat increased slightly (p = 0.017), while body weight, total body water, protein, soft lean mass, fat-free mass, skeletal muscle and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) decreased in two groups (p < 0.01). At weeks 4, 12 and 24, the SMI decreased less in the OPO group than in the control group, with a trend towards significance (p = 0.090). A 24-week daily intake of sn-2-palmitate-enriched oil had no adverse impact on fasting blood glucose, lipids and body composition compared with the control vegetable oil in Chinese adults (funded by Chinese Nutrition Society National Nutrition Science Research Grant, National Key Research and Development Program of China and Wilmar (Shanghai) Biotechnology Research & Development Center Co., Ltd.; ChiCTR1900026480).

2024 Guidelines of the Polish Society of Laboratory Diagnostics and the Polish Lipid Association on laboratory diagnostics of lipid metabolism disorders

Lipid disorders are the most common (even 70%) and worst monitored cardiovascular risk factor (only 1/4 of patients in Poland and in CEE countries are on the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goal). To improve this, clear and simple diagnostic criteria should be introduced for all components of the lipid profile. These are the updated guidelines of the two main scientific societies in Poland in the area - the Polish Society of Laboratory Diagnostics (PSLD) and the Polish Lipid Association (PoLA), which, in comparison to those from 2020, introduce few important changes in recommendations (two main lipid targets, new recommendations on LDL-C measurements, calculations new goals for triglycerides, new recommendations on remnants and small dense LDL) that should help the practitioners to be early with the diagnosis of lipid disorders and in the effective monitoring (after therapy initiation), and in the consequence to avoid the first and recurrent cardiovascular events.

Investigation of treatment volume versus circulating blood volume during Rheocarna treatment

INTRODUCTION

Rheocarna's therapeutic effect is associated with fibrinogen (Fib) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) adsorptive removal. This study aimed to retrospectively investigate the association between treatment volume (TV) and circulating blood volume (CBV) and the Fib removal rate (Fib-RR) and LDL-C-RR.

METHODS

CBV and TV/CBV, cut-off value (CO value), and area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) were calculated. The Fib-RR and LDL-C-RR at the midterm and end of treatment were compared. The groups were further categorized into three groups with TV/CBV lower than or higher than the CO value at the midterm and end (midterm/end; Group L: lower than/lower than CO; Group L/H: lower than/higher than CO; Group H: higher than/higher than CO), and the Fib-RR and LDL-RR of each group at the midterm and end were compared.

RESULTS

ROC analysis revealed a TV of 1.480 times the BV as CO value, which showed a maximum Youden index predicting a Fib-RR of 20% (AUC: 0.828). Among the three groups, Group L and Group L/H demonstrated significantly higher Fib-RR and LDL-C-RR at the end of the study than in the midterm, while Group H exhibited no difference.

CONCLUSION

The results reveal that a treatment volume of 1.5 times the circulating blood volume is a sufficient solute removal capacity in the Rheocarna-enabled cases.

Comparison of Sampson and extended Martin/Hopkins methods of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol calculations with direct measurement in pediatric patients with hypertriglyceridemia

OBJECTIVE

The Friedewald equation is the commonly used method of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) calculation, requiring reflex to direct LDL-C measurement when triglycerides (TG) ≥ 400 mg/dL. Recently formulated Sampson and extended Martin/Hopkins methods have been validated with TG up to 800 mg/dL and thus have the potential to replace direct LDL-C measurement. Given the growing prevalence of childhood dyslipidemia, the objective of this study was to compare Sampson and extended Martin/Hopkins methods of LDL-C calculation with the direct measurement in a pediatric cohort with 400 ≤ TG ≤ 799 mg/dL.

METHODS

This study retrieved standard lipid panels and corresponding direct LDL-C measurements of 131 patients with 400 ≤ TG ≤ 799 mg/dL from a pediatric population. Following the application of Sampson and extended Martin/Hopkins calculations, calculated values were compared with direct LDL-C measurements using ordinary least squares linear regression analysis and bias plotting.

RESULTS

Both Sampson and extended Martin/Hopkins LDL-C calculations exhibited a strong correlation with the direct measurements (Pearson r = 0.89) in patients with 400 ≤ TG ≤ 800 mg/dL. Average percentages of bias of 45% and 21% were found between the direct LDL-C measurements and Sampson or extended Martin/Hopkins calculations, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Both Sampson and extended Martin/Hopkins calculations are applicable as clinical alternatives of direct LDL-C measurement in pediatric patients given 400 ≤ TG ≤ 799 mg/dL.

Associations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol with all-cause and cause-specific mortality in older adults in China

CONTEXT

Limited information was available on detailed associations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) with all-cause and cause-specific mortality in older adults.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study included a representative sample of 211,290 adults aged 65 or older, who participated in Shenzhen Healthy Aging Research 2018-2019. The vital status of the participants by 31 December, 2021 was determined. We estimated the hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals for all-cause or cause-specific mortality using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models and Cox models with restricted cubic spline(RCS) .

RESULTS

The median follow-up time was 3.08 years. A total of 5,333 participants were confirmed to have died. Among them, 2,303 cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths and 1,881 cancer deaths occurred. Compared to those with LDL-C of 100-129 mg/dL, the all-cause mortality risk was significantly higher for individuals with LDL-C level that was very low (< 70 mg/dL) or low (70-99 mg/dL). Compared with individuals with the reference LDL-C level, the multivariable-adjusted HR for CVD-specific mortality was 1.327 for those with very low LDL-C level (< 70 mg/dL), 1.437 for those with high LDL-C level (160 mg/dL ≦ LDL-C < 190mg/dL), 1.528 for those with very high LDL-C level (≥ 190 mg/dL). Low LDL-C level (70-99 mg/dL) and very low LDL-C level (< 70 mg/dL) were also associated with increased cancer mortality and other-cause mortality, respectively. The results from RCS curve showed similar results.

CONCLUSION

Considering the risk of all-causes mortality and cause-specific mortality, we recommended 100-159 mg/dL as the optimal range of LDL-C among older adults in China.

Long-term risk-factor control and secondary prevention are insufficient after first TIA: Results from QregPV

INTRODUCTION

Long-term risk-factor control and secondary prevention are not well characterized in patients with a first transient ischemic attack (TIA). With baseline levels as reference, we compared primary-care data on blood pressure (BP), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), smoking, and use of antihypertensives, statins and antiplatelet treatment/oral anticoagulation (APT/OAC) during 5 years after a first TIA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients in QregPV, a Swedish primary-care register for the Region of Västra Götaland, with a first TIA discharge diagnosis from wards proficient in stroke care 2010 to 2012 were identified and followed up to 5 years. BP, LDL-C, smoking, use of antihypertensives, statins, APT/OAC, and achievement of target levels were calculated. We used logistic mixed-effect models to analyze the effect of follow-up over time on risk-factor control and secondary prevention treatment.

RESULTS

We identified 942 patients without prior cerebrovascular disease who had a first TIA. Compared to baseline, the first year of follow-up was associated with improvements in concomitant attainment of BP <140/90 mmHg, LDL-C < 2.6 mmol/L and non-smoking, which rose from 20% to 33% (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.38-3.13), but then stagnated in years 2-5. In the first year of follow-up, 47% of patients had complete secondary prevention treatment (antihypertensives, APT/OAC and statin), but continued follow-up was associated with a yearly decrease in secondary prevention treatment (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.94-0.98).

CONCLUSION

Risk-factor control was inadequate, leaving considerable potential for improved secondary prevention treatment after a first TIA in Swedish patients followed up to 5 years.

First Report of Inclisiran Utilization for Hypercholesterolemia Treatment in Real-world Clinical Settings in a Middle East Population

PURPOSE

Inclisiran is the first small interfering RNA-based treatment approved for reducing pro-atherogenic lipoproteins in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia or clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, who require additional lowering of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). We report the first evaluation of the effects of inclisiran in a Middle East population.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of patients initiating inclisiran treatment at an outpatient diabetology, endocrinology, and cardiology center between May 2021 and December 2022. All patients followed up for 90 days or more, or with at least 1 lipid determination post initiation were included. Participants were categorized into primary prevention (n = 57) and secondary prevention (n = 89) groups according to previous atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

FINDINGS

Inclisiran was initiated in 146 patients; mean (SD) age was 54.8 (12.12) years, 82 patients (56.2%) were male, 28 patients (19.2%) had received a diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia, 89 patients (61%) had received a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, and 35 patients (23.9%) had a statin intolerance. Median (interquartile range) follow-up was 137 (90 to 193) days. At 90 days, median (interquartile range) reductions in serum LDL-C and triglycerides were -37.9% (-9.5% to -51.2%) and -12.0% (-9.8% to -40.5%), respectively, in primary prevention and -54.1% (-17.1% to -71.4%) and -15.3% (-14% to -38.8%), respectively, in secondary prevention (all, P < 0.001). LDL-C goals were attained in 110 patients (75.3%). Nonattainment of LDL-C goal was attributed to system effect in 26 patients (72.2%), biological effect in 5 patients (13.9%), and discontinuation of treatment in 5 patients (13.9%). Therapy was well tolerated.

IMPLICATIONS

This study is the first from the Middle East and North Africa region that reported the real-world efficacy and safety profile of inclisiran in a mixed-risk population of patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and other non-familial hypercholesterolemia indications. Clinically meaningful and sustained reductions in pro-atherogenic lipids with good tolerability were observed after inclisiran initiation. Fewer AEs were reported in this predominantly Arabic population, consistent with previous safety reports for inclisiran. It is important to note that no patient stopped inclisiran treatment due to AEs. Strengths of our study included an optimal cohort, patient heterogeneity, and high retention. In addition, we were able to report mean robust effects of inclisiran and good medication tolerability, quite like randomized studies and open-label extension periods. Despite this, our study had some limitations, including selection bias due to the retrospective design and the absence of a comparative group.

Association between Dyslipidaemia and Cognitive Impairment: A Meta-Analysis of Cohort and Case-Control Studies

BACKGROUND

This study explored the specific relationship between different lipid indicators and cognitive impairment and aimed to provide a reference for implementing targeted lipid regulation measures to prevent and alleviate cognitive impairment.

METHODS

We searched three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science) for literature related to hyperlipidaemia, lipid levels, and cognitive impairment, and used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale to evaluate the quality of the identified literature. A meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4, and the combined effect size ratio using a random-effects model (odds ratio [OR] and 95% confidence interval [CI]) was used to evaluate the association between dyslipidaemia and cognitive impairment.

RESULTS

Among initially identified 2247 papers, we ultimately included 18 studies involving a total of 758,074 patients. The results of the meta-analysis revealed that patients with hyperlipidaemia had a 1.23-fold higher risk of cognitive impairment than those with normal lipid levels (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.04-1.47, p = 0.02). Further subgroup analysis showed that elevated total cholesterol (TC) levels increased the risk of cognitive impairment by 1.59-fold (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.27-2.01, p < 0.0001) and were more significant in older or male patients. Moreover, elevated triglyceride levels were inversely correlated with cognitive disorders, whereas elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were unrelated to cognitive impairment risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Dyslipidaemia was strongly associated with cognitive impairment, and elevated TC levels were a risk factor for cognitive impairment. Furthermore, the damaging effects of elevated TC levels on cognition were more pronounced in older and male populations.

Impact of Guideline-Directed Management Strategies for Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Control in Patients Who Underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

There are little direct comparative evidences of strategies between ≥50% and the absolute target goal of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level <55 mg/100 ml for the patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study aimed to investigate the clinical impact of different strategies between 2 groups of patients who underwent PCI. A total of 3,104 patients with previous PCI were retrospectively enrolled from 2014 to 2020 at Yeungnam University Medical Center. The study population was stratified into 2 groups based on whether the LDL-C level was <55 mg/100 ml at the 1-year mark or not. Furthermore, the 50% reduction rate of LDL-C was also categorized based on whether it had decreased by ≥50% from the initial LDL-C level at the 1-year mark. The primary end point was 3-year major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) which were defined as a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, target lesion revascularization, hospitalization for heart failure, or nonfatal stroke. There was no significant difference between the LDL <55 mg/100 ml group and the LDL ≥55 mg/100 ml group in the risk of MACEs (hazard ratio 1.06, 95% confidence interval 0.81 to 1.38, p = 0.690) after propensity score matching. However, the group that achieved ≥50% reduction of LDL-C from baseline LDL-C level showed a significant reduction in the occurrence of MACEs in the subgroup of LDL-C level ≥55 mg/100 ml (hazard ratio 0.41, 95% confidence interval 0.19 to 0.89, p = 0.025) compared with the group with <50% reduction of LDL-C. In all patients, the achievement rate of target LDL-C <55 mg/100 ml and more than 50% reduction from baseline was 17.2%. In conclusion, guideline-directed management strategy of ≥50% reduction of LDL-C from the baseline will be needed to reduce the incidence of MACEs in patients with LDL-C ≥55 mg/100 ml who underwent PCI. Additional efforts to increase the target goal achievement rate of LDL-C are warranted.

A Novel LDLC Equation is Superior to the NIH LDLC Equation and the Friedewald Equation

Background

LDLC equations have varying levels of underestimation for the calculated LDLC. Therefore, underestimating LDLC should be avoided as much as possible. We need to establish LDLC equations that underestimate LDLC as little as possible.

Methods

We established the equations with a healthy cohort from Shuyang Hospital and validated the equations with an unselected patient cohort from The Second People's Hospital of Lianyungang. We established the novel LDLC equations by using the regression equation. The relationship between two markers was analysed using Pearson's approach. The 95% limits of measuring agreement within ±2 SD for the LDLC equations was performed using Bland‒Altman analysis. ROC curve analysis was used to predict LDLC levels and the accuracy of the LDLC equation for determining the direct LDLC levels at LDLC cut-offs was assessed.

Results

We obtained two novel LDLC equations (LDL_nonHDLC equation=-0.899+1.195*nonHDLC-0.00347*nonHDLC2 and LDL_TC(total cholesterol) equation=-2.775+1.29*TC -0.00990* TC 2). The correlation coefficient between the novel LDLC equation and the direct LDLC measurements is not lower than that between the LDL_NIH equation and the direct LDLC measurements. The AUCs of our novel LDLC equations were greater than those of the LDL_NIH equation and the LDL_F equation at the LDLC cut-offs for clinical decision-making. The measuring agreement in the methods of the LDL_nonHDL equation is superior to that of the LDL_NIH equation.

Conclusion

LDLC calculated by the novel LDL_nonHDL equation exhibited superiority over the LDL_NIH equation. Combining the LDL_NIH equation and our novel LDLC equation may improve accuracy and avoid undertreatment of high LDLC levels.

Long-Term Efficacy of Evolocumab in Patients With or Without Multivessel Coronary Disease

BACKGROUND

In FOURIER (Further Cardiovascular Outcomes Research with PCSK9 Inhibition in Subjects with Elevated Risk), during a median follow-up of 2.2 years, risk reduction for major adverse cardiovascular event with evolocumab was greater in patients with multivessel disease (MVD). The FOURIER Open-Label Extension (FOURIER-OLE) provides an additional median follow-up of 5 years.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term benefit of evolocumab in patients with and without MVD.

METHODS

FOURIER randomized 27,564 patients to evolocumab vs placebo; 6,635 entered FOURIER-OLE. Patients with coronary artery disease were categorized based on the presence of MVD (≥40% stenosis in ≥2 large vessels). The primary endpoint was cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, hospitalization for unstable angina, or coronary revascularization; the key secondary endpoint was cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke.

RESULTS

Of 23,656 patients in FOURIER with coronary artery disease, 25.4% had MVD; 5,887 patients continued into FOURIER-OLE. The risk reduction with initial allocation to evolocumab tended to be greater in patients with MVD than in those without: 23% (HR: 0.77 [95% CI: 0.68-0.87]) vs 11% (HR: 0.89 [95% CI: 0.82-0.96]) for the primary and 31% (HR: 0.69 [95% CI: 0.59-0.81]) vs 15% (HR: 0.85 [95% CI: 0.77-0.94]) for the key secondary endpoints (Pinteraction = 0.062 and Pinteraction = 0.031, respectively). The magnitude of benefit tended to grow during the first several years, reaching 37% to 38% reductions in risk in patients with MVD and 23% to 28% reductions in risk in patients without MVD.

CONCLUSIONS

Evolocumab reduced the rate of major adverse cardiovascular event in patients with and without MVD. The benefit tended to occur earlier and was larger in patients with MVD. However, the magnitude grew over time in both groups. These data support early initiation of intensive low-density lipoprotein cholesterol lowering both in patients with and without MVD.

Effects of Serum Estradiol on Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 Levels and Lipid Profiles in Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization

BACKGROUND

The mechanisms underlying the impact of estradiol (E2) on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels are not completely understood, although a role for proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has been proposed. We aimed to investigate the association between levels of E2, PCSK9, and lipid parameters in premenopausal women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF).

METHODS

Healthy women undergoing IVF in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the University General Hospital of Ioannina were recruited. Their levels of E2, PCSK9, total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL-C, and triglycerides (TGs) were measured 10 days after ovarian depression (E2min) and 7 days after ovarian stimulation (E2max).

RESULTS

We included 34 consecutive women of median age 38 (interquartile range 26-46) years who underwent a full IVF cycle. As expected, E2 levels increased by 329.6% from E2min to E2max (108 [47-346] to 464 [241-2471] pg/mL, p < 0.05). During the same time, serum PCSK9 levels decreased by 30.8% (245 ± 80 to 170 ± 64 ng/mL, p < 0.05). TC, LDL-C, and TGs decreased by 0.4%, 3.8%, and 2.2%, respectively, while HDL-C levels increased by 5.3% (all p = NS).

CONCLUSIONS

The rise in endogenous E2 during an IVF cycle was related with a significant decline in serum PCSK9 levels, but no significant change in plasma lipids during a 7-day period.

Prediction of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels using machine learning methods

OBJECTIVE

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) has been commonly calculated by equations, but their performance has not been entirely satisfactory. This study aimed to develop a more accurate LDL-C prediction model using machine learning methods.

METHODS

The study involved predicting directly measured LDL-C, using individual characteristics, lipid profiles, and other laboratory results as predictors. The models applied to predict LDL-C values were multiple regression, penalized regression, random forest, and XGBoost. Additionally, a novel 2-step prediction model was developed and introduced. The machine learning methods were evaluated against the Friedewald, Martin, and Sampson equations.

RESULTS

The Friedewald, Martin, and Sampson equations had root mean squared error (RMSE) values of 12.112, 8.084, and 8.492, respectively, whereas the 2-step prediction model showed the highest accuracy, with an RMSE of 7.015. The LDL-C levels were also classified as a categorical variable according to the diagnostic criteria of the dyslipidemia treatment guideline, and concordance rates were calculated between the predictive values obtained from each method and the directly measured ones. The 2-step prediction model had the highest concordance rate (85.1%).

CONCLUSION

The machine learning method can calculate LDL-C more accurately than existing equations. The proposed 2-step prediction model, in particular, outperformed the other machine learning methods.

Functionalized Periodic Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Inhibiting the Progression of Atherosclerosis by Targeting Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol

Atherosclerotic disease is a substantial global burden, and existing treatments, such as statins, are recommended to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and inhibit the progression of atherosclerosis. However, side effects, including gastrointestinal unease, potential harm to the liver, and discomfort in the muscles, might be observed. In this study, we propose a novel method using periodic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (PMS) to create heparin-modified PMS (PMS-HP) with excellent biocompatibility, enabling selective removal of LDL-C from the blood. In vitro, through the introduction of PMS-HP into the plasma of mice, we observed that, compared to PMS alone, PMS-HP could selectively adsorb LDL-C while avoiding interference with valuable components such as plasma proteins and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Notably, further investigations revealed that the adsorption of LDL-C by PMS-HP could be well-fitted to quasi-first-order (R2 = 0.993) and quasi-second-order adsorption models (R2 = 0.998). Likewise, in vivo, intravenous injection of PMS-HP enabled targeted LDL-C adsorption (6.5 ± 0.73 vs. 8.6 ± 0.76 mM, p < 0.001) without affecting other plasma constituents, contributing to reducing intravascular plaque formation (3.66% ± 1.06% vs. 1.87% ± 0.79%, p < 0.05) on the aortic wall and inhibiting vascular remodeling (27.2% ± 6.55% vs. 38.3% ± 1.99%, p < 0.05). Compared to existing lipid adsorption techniques, PMS-HP exhibited superior biocompatibility and recyclability, rendering it valuable for both in vivo and in vitro applications.

Effectiveness of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol reduction with lipid lowering therapy for secondary prevention amongst older individuals: a nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND

Data about the clinical benefit from initial low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction with lipid lowering treatment for secondary prevention and risk of major vascular events amongst older as compared with younger individuals treated during routine clinical care are limited. We investigated this in a nationwide cohort.

METHODS

Individuals aged ≥ 50 years with a first-time hospitalisation for a cardiovascular event (index event, including acute coronary syndrome, non-haemorrhagic stroke, transient ischaemic attack and coronary revascularisation), 1 January 2008 to 31 October 2018, who subsequently used lipid lowering treatment, and had an LDL-C measurement before and after the event were included. Hazard ratios (HRs) for major vascular events per 1 mmol/L reduction in LDL-C were estimated for the included 21,751 older and 22,681 younger individuals (≥/<70 years old) using Cox regression.

RESULTS

LDL-C lowering was associated with a 12% lower risk of major vascular events in older individuals per 1 mmol/L reduction in LDL-C (HR 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.84-0.93), with no significant difference compared with the risk reduction amongst younger individuals (HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.83-0.93; P-value for difference between age groups: 0.86). The risk reduction was more pronounced when post hoc restricting, as a proxy for compliance, to new users with an LDL-C reduction above the lowest decile for both older (0.81, 95% CI 0.73-0.90) and younger (0.81, 95% CI 0.72-0.91) individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

This study strongly supports a similar relative clinical benefit of LDL-C reduction with lipid lowering treatment for secondary prevention of major vascular events amongst individuals aged ≥70 and <70 years.

Genetic backgrounds and diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia

Lipid disorders play a critical role in the intricate development of atherosclerosis and its clinical consequences, such as coronary heart disease and stroke. These disorders are responsible for a significant number of deaths in many adult populations worldwide. Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder that causes extremely high levels of LDL cholesterol. The most common mutations occur in genes responsible for low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), apolipoprotein B (APOB), or proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). While genetic testing is a dependable method for diagnosing the disease, it may not detect primary mutations in 20%-40% of FH cases.

Efficacy and Safety of Alirocumab and Evolocumab as Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9) Inhibitors in Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a prevalent and potentially fatal illness that causes a substantial elevation in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of monoclonal antibodies alirocumab and evolocumab on LDL-C and other lipid parameters, as well as their safety in familial hypercholesterolemia patients.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was done on PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science (WOS/ ISI), Scopus, ClinicalTrials (www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov), and conferences/ congress research papers. Random effect models were used to calculate mean differences (%) and risk ratios (RRs), and confidence intervals (95%).

RESULTS

Ten studies (n=1489 patients) were included in this study. PCSK9 inhibitors decreased the levels of LDL-C by -49.59% (95%CI -55.5%, -43.67%) as compared to placebo. They also didn't alter the Treatment-Emergent Adverse Event (TEAE) and neuronal events by RR 0.92 (0.75, 1.13) and 1.31 (0.66, 2.59), respectively. PCSK9 inhibitors were effective and safe in treating patients with FH.

CONCLUSION

There was high-quality evidence showing that monoclonal antibodies (alirocumab & evolocumab) lower LDL-C (GRADE: high), lipoprotein (a) (GRADE: High), triglycerides (TG) (GRADE: High), total cholesterol (GRADE: High), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non- HDL-C) (GRADE: Moderate), and apolipoprotein B (GRADE: High), and increase the HDL-C (GRADE: High) as well as apolipoprotein A1 (GRADE: High). Comparing PCSK9 inhibitors against placebo, neither TEAE (GRADE: high) nor neuronal events (GRADE: moderate) were changed.