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Zhao J, Zhang X, Li Y, Yu J, Chen Z, Niu Y, Ran S, Wang S, Ye W, Luo Z, Li X, Hao Y, Zong J, Xia C, Xia J, Wu J. Interorgan communication with the liver: novel mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1314123. [PMID: 38155961 PMCID: PMC10754533 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1314123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is a multifunctional organ that plays crucial roles in numerous physiological processes, such as production of bile and proteins for blood plasma, regulation of blood levels of amino acids, processing of hemoglobin, clearance of metabolic waste, maintenance of glucose, etc. Therefore, the liver is essential for the homeostasis of organisms. With the development of research on the liver, there is growing concern about its effect on immune cells of innate and adaptive immunity. For example, the liver regulates the proliferation, differentiation, and effector functions of immune cells through various secreted proteins (also known as "hepatokines"). As a result, the liver is identified as an important regulator of the immune system. Furthermore, many diseases resulting from immune disorders are thought to be related to the dysfunction of the liver, including systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, and heart failure. Thus, the liver plays a role in remote immune regulation and is intricately linked with systemic immunity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the liver remote regulation of the body's innate and adaptive immunity regarding to main areas: immune-related molecules secreted by the liver and the liver-resident cells. Additionally, we assessed the influence of the liver on various facets of systemic immune-related diseases, offering insights into the clinical application of target therapies for liver immune regulation, as well as future developmental trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiulu Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jizhang Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhang Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuqing Niu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuan Ran
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Song Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Weicong Ye
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zilong Luo
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaohan Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanglin Hao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Junjie Zong
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chengkun Xia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiahong Xia
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
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Yang QC, Wang S, Liu YT, Song A, Wu ZZ, Wan SC, Li HM, Sun ZJ. Targeting PCSK9 reduces cancer cell stemness and enhances antitumor immunity in head and neck cancer. iScience 2023; 26:106916. [PMID: 37305703 PMCID: PMC10250824 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has been demonstrated to play a critical role in regulating cholesterol homeostasis and T cell antitumor immunity. However, the expression, function, and therapeutic value of PCSK9 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remain largely unexplored. Here, we found that the expression of PCSK9 was upregulated in HNSCC tissues, and higher PCSK9 expression indicated poorer prognosis in HNSCC patients. We further found that pharmacological inhibition or siRNA downregulating PCSK9 expression suppressed the stemness-like phenotype of cancer cells in an LDLR-dependent manner. Moreover, PCSK9 inhibition enhanced the infiltration of CD8+ T cells and reduced the myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in a 4MOSC1 syngeneic tumor-bearing mouse model, and it also enhanced the antitumor effect of anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. Together, these results indicated that PCSK9, a traditional hypercholesterolemia target, may be a novel biomarker and therapeutic target to enhance ICB therapy in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Chao Yang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan-Tong Liu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - An Song
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhi-Zhong Wu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shu-Cheng Wan
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui-Min Li
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Sun
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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3
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Ma M, Hou C, Liu J. Effect of PCSK9 on atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases and its mechanisms: Focus on immune regulation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1148486. [PMID: 36970356 PMCID: PMC10036592 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1148486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a basic pathological characteristic of many cardiovascular diseases, and if not effectively treated, patients with such disease may progress to atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs) and even heart failure. The level of plasma proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is significantly higher in patients with ASCVDs than in the healthy population, suggesting that it may be a promising new target for the treatment of ASCVDs. PCSK9 produced by the liver and released into circulation inhibits the clearance of plasma low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), mainly by downregulating the level of LDL-C receptor (LDLR) on the surface of hepatocytes, leading to upregulated LDL-C in plasma. Numerous studies have revealed that PCSK9 may cause poor prognosis of ASCVDs by activating the inflammatory response and promoting the process of thrombosis and cell death independent of its lipid-regulatory function, yet the underlying mechanisms still need to be further clarified. In patients with ASCVDs who are intolerant to statins or whose plasma LDL-C levels fail to descend to the target value after treatment with high-dose statins, PCSK9 inhibitors often improve their clinical outcomes. Here, we summarize the biological characteristics and functional mechanisms of PCSK9, highlighting its immunoregulatory function. We also discuss the effects of PCSK9 on common ASCVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minglu Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Early Prediction and Intervention of Acute Myocardial Infarction, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chang Hou
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Early Prediction and Intervention of Acute Myocardial Infarction, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Early Prediction and Intervention of Acute Myocardial Infarction, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Correspondence: Jian Liu
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Ou Z, Yu Z, Liang B, Zhao L, Li J, Pang X, Liu Q, Xu C, Dong S, Sun X, Li T. Evolocumab enables rapid LDL-C reduction and inflammatory modulation during in-hospital stage of acute coronary syndrome: A pilot study on Chinese patients. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:939791. [PMID: 36017088 PMCID: PMC9397913 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.939791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has long been considered a key regulator in lipid metabolism. Its role as a potential player in immune response has recently earned much attention. However, the effects of evolocumab, an approved PCSK9 monoclonal antibody, on lipid reduction and inflammation regulation in Chinese patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) during their in-hospital stage after an index event are not well known. Methods We conducted a case-crossover pilot study (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/, NCT04730648) involving 31 patients hospitalized for ACS with elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level (≥70 mg/dL despite high-intensity statin) and 8 age- and gender-matched patients without coronary heart disease (CHD) as the baseline control. The patients with ACS received one dose of subcutaneous evolocumab (140 mg) on top of 10 mg/day rosuvastatin during hospitalization. Blood samples at baseline and 72 h post-evolocumab administration were collected for lipid and cytokine assessments. Results The patients without CHD shared similar risk factors and LDL-C levels with the patients with ACS but exhibited a more activated inflammatory status. After single-dose in-hospital evolocumab, the median LDL-C level of patients with ACS decreased from 109.0 to 41.4 mg/dL as early as 72 h, accompanied with reductions in other atherogenic lipids. Systemic inflammatory pattern was also altered, rendering a decrease in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Conclusion In this case-crossover study of the effect of PCSK9 antibody among Chinese patients, evolocumab on top of high-intensity statin during hospitalization led to a remarkable and rapid reduction in atherogenic lipids and an alteration in inflammatory status at early-stage post-ACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Ou
- Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Third Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zaixin Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Benhui Liang
- Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Third Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianghua Li
- Department of Cardiology, Shenzhen Cardiovascular Minimally Invasive Medical Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology, Jinan University), Shenzhen, China
| | - Xinli Pang
- Department of Cardiology, Shenzhen Cardiovascular Minimally Invasive Medical Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology, Jinan University), Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiyun Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Shenzhen Cardiovascular Minimally Invasive Medical Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology, Jinan University), Shenzhen, China
| | - Cong Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Shenzhen Cardiovascular Minimally Invasive Medical Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology, Jinan University), Shenzhen, China
| | - Shaohong Dong
- Department of Cardiology, Shenzhen Cardiovascular Minimally Invasive Medical Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology, Jinan University), Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Cardiology, Shenzhen Cardiovascular Minimally Invasive Medical Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology, Jinan University), Shenzhen, China
| | - Tangzhiming Li
- Department of Cardiology, Shenzhen Cardiovascular Minimally Invasive Medical Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology, Jinan University), Shenzhen, China
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5
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Abstract
This article reviews the discovery of PCSK9, its structure-function characteristics, and its presently known and proposed novel biological functions. The major critical function of PCSK9 deduced from human and mouse studies, as well as cellular and structural analyses, is its role in increasing the levels of circulating low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol (LDLc), via its ability to enhance the sorting and escort of the cell surface LDL receptor (LDLR) to lysosomes. This implicates the binding of the catalytic domain of PCSK9 to the EGF-A domain of the LDLR. This also requires the presence of the C-terminal Cys/His-rich domain, its binding to the secreted cytosolic cyclase associated protein 1, and possibly another membrane-bound "protein X". Curiously, in PCSK9-deficient mice, an alternative to the downregulation of the surface levels of the LDLR by PCSK9 is taking place in the liver of female mice in a 17β-estradiol-dependent manner by still an unknown mechanism. Recent studies have extended our understanding of the biological functions of PCSK9, namely its implication in septic shock, vascular inflammation, viral infections (Dengue; SARS-CoV-2) or immune checkpoint modulation in cancer via the regulation of the cell surface levels of the T-cell receptor and MHC-I, which govern the antitumoral activity of CD8+ T cells. Because PCSK9 inhibition may be advantageous in these processes, the availability of injectable safe PCSK9 inhibitors that reduces by 50% to 60% LDLc above the effect of statins is highly valuable. Indeed, injectable PCSK9 monoclonal antibody or small interfering RNA could be added to current immunotherapies in cancer/metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabil G Seidah
- Laboratory of Biochemical Neuroendocrinology, Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM, affiliated to the University of Montreal), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Annik Prat
- Laboratory of Biochemical Neuroendocrinology, Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM, affiliated to the University of Montreal), Montreal, QC, Canada
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Plasmatic PCSK9 Levels Are Associated with Very Fast Progression of Asymptomatic Degenerative Aortic Stenosis. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2021; 15:5-14. [PMID: 34341879 DOI: 10.1007/s12265-021-10138-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to study the association of potential biomarkers with fast aortic stenosis (AS) progression. Patients with moderate-to-severe AS were classified as very fast progressors (VFP) if exhibited an annualized change in peak velocity (aΔVmax) ≥0.45m/s/year and/or in aortic valve area (aΔAVA) ≥-0.2cm2/year. Respective cut-off values of ≥0.3m/s/year and ≥-0.1cm2/year defined fast progressors (FP), whereas the remaining patients were non-fast progressors (non-FP). Baseline markers of lipid metabolism, inflammation, and cardiac overload were determined. Two hundred and nine patients (97 non-FP, 38 FP, and 74 VFP) were included. PCSK9 levels were significantly associated with VFP (OR 1.014 [95%CI 1.005-1.024], for every 10 ng/mL), as were active smoking (OR 3.48) and body mass index (BMI, OR 1.09), with an AUC of 0.704 for the model. PCSK9 levels, active smoking, and BMI were associated with very fast AS progression in our series, suggesting that inflammation and calcification participate in disease progression.
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PCSK9: A Multi-Faceted Protein That Is Involved in Cardiovascular Biology. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9070793. [PMID: 34356856 PMCID: PMC8301306 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9070793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Pro-protein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is secreted mostly by hepatocytes and to a lesser extent by the intestine, pancreas, kidney, adipose tissue, and vascular cells. PCSK9 has been known to interact with the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and chaperones the receptor to its degradation. In this manner, targeting PCSK9 is a novel attractive approach to reduce hyperlipidaemia and the risk for cardiovascular diseases. Recently, it has been recognised that the effects of PCSK9 in relation to cardiovascular complications are not only LDLR related, but that various LDLR-independent pathways and processes are also influenced. In this review, the various LDLR dependent and especially independent effects of PCSK9 on the cardiovascular system are discussed, followed by an overview of related PCSK9-polymorphisms and currently available and future therapeutic approaches to manipulate PCSK9 expression.
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Gao J, Yang YN, Cui Z, Feng SY, Ma J, Li CP, Liu Y. Pcsk9 is associated with severity of coronary artery lesions in male patients with premature myocardial infarction. Lipids Health Dis 2021; 20:56. [PMID: 34044829 PMCID: PMC8161665 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-021-01478-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (Pcsk9) correlated with incidence and prognosis of coronary heart disease. However, it is unclear whether Pcsk9 contributed to coronary artery lesion severity in patients with premature myocardial infarction (PMI). The present study investigated associations between Pcsk9 and coronary artery lesion severity in PMI patients who underwent coronary angiography (CAG). METHODS This prospective cohort study included young men (age ≤ 45 years, n = 332) with acute MI who underwent CAG between January 2017 and July 2019. Serum Pcsk9 levels and clinical characteristics were evaluated. SYNTAX scores (SYNergy between percutaneous coronary intervention with [paclitaxel-eluting] TAXUS stent and cardiac surgery) were calculated to quantify coronary artery lesions. RESULTS Serum Pcsk9 levels were positively associated with SYNTAX scores (r = 0.173, P < 0.05). The diagnostic cutoff value of PSCK9 level was 122.9 ng/mL, yielding an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.63, sensitivity 81%, and specificity 40%. Serum Pcsk9, LDL-C, Apob, NT-proBnp, CK level, and diabetes history were independent predictors of high SYNTAX scores (P < 0.05). After stratifying by serum LDL-C level (cutoff = 2.6 mmol/L), medium-high Pcsk9 levels had increased risk of high SYNTAX scores in patients with high LDL-C (P < 0.05), and higher serum Pcsk9 levels had increased risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) after adjusting for confounding factors (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Serum Pcsk9 levels correlates with severity of coronary artery lesion in PMI patients and may serve as a biomarker for severity of coronary artery stenosis in this patient population, which may contribute to risk stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Gao
- Chest Hospital, Tianjin University, No.92 Weijin Road Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, P.R. China
- Thoracic Clinical College, Tianjin Medical University, No.22 Qi xiang tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, P.R. China
- Cardiovascular Institute, Tianjin Chest Hospital, No.261 Tai erzhuang Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300222, P.R. China
| | - Ya-Nan Yang
- Tianjin Medical University, No.22 Qi xiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, P.R. China
| | - Zhuang Cui
- Tianjin Medical University, No.22 Qi xiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, P.R. China
| | - Si-Yuan Feng
- Tianjin Medical University, No.22 Qi xiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, P.R. China
| | - Jing Ma
- Cardiovascular Institute, Tianjin Chest Hospital, No.261 Tai erzhuang Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300222, P.R. China
| | - Chang-Ping Li
- Tianjin Medical University, No.22 Qi xiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, P.R. China.
| | - Yin Liu
- Thoracic Clinical College, Tianjin Medical University, No.22 Qi xiang tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, P.R. China.
- Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Chest Hospital, No.261 Tai erzhuang Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300222, P.R. China.
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9
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Ragusa R, Basta G, Neglia D, De Caterina R, Del Turco S, Caselli C. PCSK9 and atherosclerosis: Looking beyond LDL regulation. Eur J Clin Invest 2021; 51:e13459. [PMID: 33236356 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is involved in cholesterol homeostasis. After binding to the complex low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-receptor, PCSK9 induces its intracellular degradation, thus reducing serum LDL clearance. In addition to the well-known activity on the hepatic LDL receptor-mediated pathway, PCSK9 has been, however, associated with vascular inflammation in atherogenesis. Indeed, PCSK9 is expressed by various cell types that are involved in atherosclerosis (e.g. endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells and macrophages) and is detected inside human atherosclerotic plaques. We here analyse the biology of PCSK9 and its possible involvement in molecular processes involved in atherosclerosis, beyond the regulation of circulating LDL cholesterol levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosetta Ragusa
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.,Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Danilo Neglia
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.,Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy.,Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, Pisa, Italy
| | - Raffaele De Caterina
- Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, Pisa, Italy.,Cardiovascular Division, Pisa University Hospital, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Caselli
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy.,Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, Pisa, Italy
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Targeting PCSK9: a promising adjuvant strategy in cancer immunotherapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:111. [PMID: 33677469 PMCID: PMC7936974 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00530-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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11
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Guo Y, Yan B, Gui Y, Tang Z, Tai S, Zhou S, Zheng XL. Physiology and role of PCSK9 in vascular disease: Potential impact of localized PCSK9 in vascular wall. J Cell Physiol 2020; 236:2333-2351. [PMID: 32875580 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK9), a member of the proprotein convertase family, is an important drug target because of its crucial role in lipid metabolism. Emerging evidence suggests a direct role of localized PCSK9 in the pathogenesis of vascular diseases. With this in our consideration, we reviewed PCSK9 physiology with respect to recent development and major studies (clinical and experimental) on PCSK9 functionality in vascular disease. PCSK9 upregulates low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol levels by binding to the LDL-receptor (LDLR) and facilitating its lysosomal degradation. PCSK9 gain-of-function mutations have been confirmed as a novel genetic mechanism for familial hypercholesterolemia. Elevated serum PCSK9 levels in patients with vascular diseases may contribute to coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, cerebrovascular diseases, vasculitis, aortic diseases, and arterial aging pathogenesis. Experimental models of atherosclerosis, arterial aneurysm, and coronary or carotid artery ligation also support PCSK9 contribution to inflammatory response and disease progression, through LDLR-dependent or -independent mechanisms. More recently, several clinical trials have confirmed that anti-PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies can reduce systemic LDL levels, total nonfatal cardiovascular events, and all-cause mortality. Interaction of PCSK9 with other receptor proteins (LDLR-related proteins, cluster of differentiation family members, epithelial Na+ channels, and sortilin) may underlie its roles in vascular disease. Improved understanding of PCSK9 roles and molecular mechanisms in various vascular diseases will facilitate advances in lipid-lowering therapy and disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Guo
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Binjie Yan
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Gui
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Zhihan Tang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Shi Tai
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Shenghua Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xi-Long Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Stöllberger C, Mertikian G, Stahl D, Finsterer J. Fatal Recurrent Staphylococcus aureus Infection in a Patient With an Aortic Endostent Under Alirocumab. Infect Dis (Lond) 2019; 12:1178633719885387. [PMID: 31695403 PMCID: PMC6822197 DOI: 10.1177/1178633719885387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Aortic stent-graft infection (SGI) entails a high mortality. Alirocumab is a monoclonal antibody to proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), approved for treatment of therapy-refractory hypercholesterolemia. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 might play a role in infections. Case report: A 68-year-old male suffered from fatigue, fever, and back pain. Twelve months previously, a 4-fold-fenestrated aortic endoprosthesis was implanted because of an aortic aneurysm. Four months later, alirocumab 150 mg was initiated. Staphylococcus aureus grew in several blood cultures, and he received cefazolin and fosfomycin. Fludeoxyglucose positron emission tomography computed tomography indicated an infected endoprosthesis. Puncture of the periprosthetic space under antibiotic therapy revealed different strains of Staphylococcus epidermidis. The therapy was changed to dalbavancin. The patient died suddenly 11 days later after complaining about back pain for several days. No autopsy was carried out. Conclusions: The most probable cause of the patient’s recurrent bacteremia with S aureus was an infection of the aortic prosthesis. Although this report is very speculative, it can be concluded that data about infections in patients under PCSK9 inhibitors should be collected systematically and more research is needed about the biological consequences of decreasing cholesterol to extreme low levels.
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