1
|
Moshkani Farahani M, Nasiri A, Salari M, Shamsedini A. The therapeutic effect of PCSK9 inhibitors on dyslipidemia: one-year follow up. Eur J Transl Myol 2024; 34:12937. [PMID: 39283139 PMCID: PMC11487668 DOI: 10.4081/ejtm.2024.12937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the availability of statins and lifestyle modifications, many patients with Dyslipidemia struggle to achieve optimal low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) control. PCSK9 inhibitors offer a promising new therapeutic option with superior LDL-C lowering efficacy compared to statins. However, data on their real-world use, particularly in Iran, is limited. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the one-year effects of evolocumab on lipid profiles and potential cardiovascular outcomes in Iranian patients with Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH).This single-center, prospective study evaluated evolocumab effectiveness in lowering LDL-C in 50 Iranian adults with FH. Participants with a documented LDL-C > 190 mg/dL on existing cholesterol medications (excluding PCSK9 inhibitors) and a clinical FH diagnosis was included. After baseline assessments (medical history, demographics, lipid profile), evolocumab was administered subcutaneously every two weeks for one year. Follow-up assessments at year one measured changes in LDL-C, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides. The study enrolled 50 participants with an average age of 55 years old (range 35-80 years).Treatment with evolocumab led to significant improvements in lipid profiles at all follow-up points compared to baseline. On average, LDL-C levels decreased by 105.24 mg/dL, triglycerides decreased by 59.20 mg/dL, and HDL-C levels increased by a modest but significant 4.5 mg/dL after one year(p<0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed no statistically significant interactions between baseline demographics (age, sex, BMI) or lifestyle habits (smoking, alcohol) and changes in lipid levels(p>0.05). However, a significant interaction emerged between baseline lipid levels and their corresponding reductions, suggesting greater improvement in patients with higher baseline values(p<0.05). It is noteworthy that no new cardiovascular events were reported during the study period. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of evolocumab in improving lipid profiles in Iranian patients with FH. The observed reductions in LDL-C and triglycerides, along with a modest increase in HDL-C, suggest potential benefits for cardiovascular risk reduction. The absence of new cardiovascular events during the study is encouraging, but further research with larger and longer-term follow-up is needed to confirm these findings and assess the long-term safety and impact on quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alireza Nasiri
- Atherosclerosis Research Center, Baqiayatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran.
| | - Mahdi Salari
- Shafa Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kemran.
| | - Ali Shamsedini
- Atherosclerosis Research Center, Baqiayatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Moustafa B, Oparowski D, Testai S, Guman I, Trifan G. Efficacy and safety of PCSK9 inhibitors for stroke prevention: Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2024; 33:107633. [PMID: 38336118 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2024.107633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Investigate the efficacy and safety of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) on stroke prevention. BACKGROUND PCSK9i reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and lipoprotein a (LpA) levels. Their efficacy in reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events has been shown in multiple randomized clinical trials (RCT). However, clinical equipoise remains on the magnitude and mechanisms by which PCSK9i decrease the risk of stroke. METHODS We performed a systematic search of biomedical databases from inception to January 15, 2024, to identify RCTs that investigated the efficacy of PCSK9i versus placebo for major cardiovascular event prevention. The primary outcome was total stroke. The safety outcome was the risk of adverse neurological events, as defined by each trial. Effect size was represented by risk ratio (RR), and analysis was done using random-effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was assessed by I2 and Cochrane Q statistics. Meta-regression analyses were performed to assess the association between LDL-C and LpA reduction and stroke risk. RESULTS Overall, 20 studies with 93,093 patients were included. The quality of the evidence was moderate and heterogeneity for all comparisons was low (I2 < 25 %). The mean age was 60.1 years for the PCSK9i group and 59.6 years for the placebo group, with a mean follow-up time of 60.1 weeks. PCSK9i reduced the LDL-C levels by 11 % and LpA levels by 8 %. PCSK9i were associated with a significant reduction in stroke risk (RR 0.75, 95 % CI 0.66-0.86, I2 = 0 %), without an increase in mortality (RR 0.97, 95 % CI 0.87-1.08, I2 = 0 %). The risk of adverse neurological events was similar between groups (RR 0.99, 95 % CI 0.84-1.18, I2 = 11 %). In meta-regression analyses, the stroke risk was not associated with the magnitude of the effect of PCSK9i on LDL-C (LDL C β = -0.01, 95 % CI = -0.03-0.02) and LpA (β = -0.01, 95 % CI = -0.06-0.04) levels. CONCLUSIONS PCSK9i significantly reduced the stroke risk, without increasing mortality or the risk of adverse neurological events. Our findings also suggest that the beneficial effect of PCSK9i on stroke risk is mediated by LDL-C- and LpA-independent mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bayan Moustafa
- Mayo Clinic Health System-Eau Claire, Eau Claire, WI, United States.
| | | | - Sofia Testai
- Latin School of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Ilan Guman
- Glenbrook North High Sch, Northbrook, IL, United States
| | - Gabriela Trifan
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schonck WAM, Stroes ESG, Hovingh GK, Reeskamp LF. Long-Term Efficacy and Tolerability of PCSK9 Targeted Therapy: A Review of the Literature. Drugs 2024; 84:165-178. [PMID: 38267805 PMCID: PMC10981656 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-024-01995-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Increased plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) are causally associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), and statins that lower LDL-C have been the cornerstone of ASCVD prevention for decades. However, guideline-recommended LDL-C targets are not achieved in about 60% of statin users. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9)-targeted therapy effectively lowers LDL-C levels and has been shown to reduce ASCVD risk. A growing body of scientific and clinical evidence shows that PCSK9-targeted therapy offers an excellent safety and tolerability profile with a low incidence of side effects in the short term. In this review, we present and discuss the current clinical and scientific evidence pertaining to the long-term efficacy and tolerability of PCSK9-targeted therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Willemijn A M Schonck
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erik S G Stroes
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G Kees Hovingh
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Global Chief Medical Office, Novo Nordisk, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laurens F Reeskamp
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kosmas CE, Bousvarou MD, Papakonstantinou EJ, Tsamoulis D, Koulopoulos A, Echavarria Uceta R, Guzman E, Rallidis LS. Novel Pharmacological Therapies for the Management of Hyperlipoproteinemia(a). Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13622. [PMID: 37686428 PMCID: PMC10487774 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular disease, predisposing to major cardiovascular events, including coronary heart disease, stroke, aortic valve calcification and abdominal aortic aneurysm. Lp(a) is differentiated from other lipoprotein molecules through apolipoprotein(a), which possesses atherogenic and antithrombolytic properties attributed to its structure. Lp(a) levels are mostly genetically predetermined and influenced by the size of LPA gene variants, with smaller isoforms resulting in a greater synthesis rate of apo(a) and, ultimately, elevated Lp(a) levels. As a result, serum Lp(a) levels may highly vary from extremely low to extremely high. Hyperlipoproteinemia(a) is defined as Lp(a) levels > 30 mg/dL in the US and >50 mg/dL in Europe. Because of its association with CVD, Lp(a) levels should be measured at least once a lifetime in adults. The ultimate goal is to identify individuals with increased risk of CVD and intervene accordingly. Traditional pharmacological interventions like niacin, statins, ezetimibe, aspirin, PCSK-9 inhibitors, mipomersen, estrogens and CETP inhibitors have not yet yielded satisfactory results. The mean Lp(a) reduction, if any, is barely 50% for all agents, with statins increasing Lp(a) levels, whereas a reduction of 80-90% appears to be required to achieve a significant decrease in major cardiovascular events. Novel RNA-interfering agents that specifically target hepatocytes are aimed in this direction. Pelacarsen is an antisense oligonucleotide, while olpasiran, LY3819469 and SLN360 are small interfering RNAs, all conjugated with a N-acetylgalactosamine molecule. Their ultimate objective is to genetically silence LPA, reduce apo(a) production and lower serum Lp(a) levels. Evidence thus so far demonstrates that monthly subcutaneous administration of a single dose yields optimal results with persisting substantial reductions in Lp(a) levels, potentially enhancing CVD risk reduction. The Lp(a) reduction achieved with novel RNA agents may exceed 95%. The results of ongoing and future clinical trials are eagerly anticipated, and it is hoped that guidelines for the tailored management of Lp(a) levels with these novel agents may not be far off.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Constantine E. Kosmas
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10467, USA;
- Cardiology Clinic, Cardiology Unlimited, PC, New York, NY 10033, USA;
| | - Maria D. Bousvarou
- School of Medicine, University of Crete, 710 03 Heraklion, Greece; (M.D.B.); (A.K.)
| | | | - Donatos Tsamoulis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Thriasio General Hospital of Eleusis, 196 00 Athens, Greece;
| | - Andreas Koulopoulos
- School of Medicine, University of Crete, 710 03 Heraklion, Greece; (M.D.B.); (A.K.)
| | | | - Eliscer Guzman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10467, USA;
- Cardiology Clinic, Cardiology Unlimited, PC, New York, NY 10033, USA;
| | - Loukianos S. Rallidis
- 2nd Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, University General Hospital ATTIKON, 124 62 Athens, Greece;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Qi L, Liu D, Qu Y, Chen B, Meng H, Zhu L, Li L, Wang S, Liu C, Zheng G, Lian Q, Yin G, Lv L, Lu D, Chen X, Xue F, An P, Li H, Deng H, Li L, Qian L, Huo Y. Tafolecimab in Chinese Patients With Hypercholesterolemia (CREDIT-4): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase 3 Trial. JACC. ASIA 2023; 3:636-645. [PMID: 37614541 PMCID: PMC10442872 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacasi.2023.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Background Tafolecimab is a novel fully human proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) monoclonal antibody, developed for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Objectives The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of tafolecimab in Chinese patients at high or very high cardiovascular risk with hypercholesterolemia. Methods Patients with diagnoses of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) by the Simon Broome criteria or at high or very high cardiovascular risk with nonfamilial hypercholesterolemia, with screening low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level ≥1.8 mmol/L, were randomized 2:1 to receive tafolecimab or placebo 450 mg every 4 weeks (Q4W) in the 12-week double-blind treatment period. The primary endpoint was the percent change from baseline to week 12 in LDL-C levels. Results A total of 303 patients were enrolled and received at least 1 dose of tafolecimab (n = 205) or placebo (n = 98). The least squares mean percent change in LDL-C level from baseline to week 12 was -68.9% (SE 1.4%) in the tafolecimab group and -5.8% (1.8%) in the placebo group (difference: -63.0%; [95% CI: -66.5% to -59.6%]; P < 0.0001). More patients treated with tafolecimab achieved ≥50% LDL-C reductions, LDL-C <1.8 mmol/L, and LDL-C <1.4 mmol/L at week 12 than did those in the placebo group (all P < 0.0001). Furthermore, tafolecimab markedly reduced non-HDL-C, apolipoprotein B, and lipoprotein(a) levels. During the double-blind treatment period, the most commonly reported adverse events included urinary tract infection (5.9% with tafolecimab vs 4.1% with placebo) and hyperuricemia (3.4% vs 4.1%). Conclusions Tafolecimab was safe and showed robust lipid-lowering efficacy in Chinese patients at high or very high cardiovascular risk with hypercholesterolemia. (A Study of IBI306 in Participants With Hypercholesterolemia; NCT04709536).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Litong Qi
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dexue Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanyang Medical College, Nanyang, China
| | - Yanling Qu
- Department of Cardiology, Yuncheng Central Hospital of Shanxi Province, Yuncheng, China
| | - Beijian Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Heze Municipal Hospital, Heze, China
| | - Haiyan Meng
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Lipeng Li
- Department of Cardiology, Luoyang Third People's Hospital, Luoyang, China
| | - Shuqing Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Hospital of Qiqihar City, Qiqihar, China
| | - Changyi Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Hospital of Qiqihar City, Qiqihar, China
| | - Guanzhong Zheng
- Department of Cardiology, Zibo Municipal Hospital, Zibo, China
| | - Qiufang Lian
- Department of Cardiology, Yan'an University Xianyang Hospital, Xianyang, China
| | - Guotian Yin
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College, Xinxiang, China
| | - Lingchun Lv
- Department of Cardiology, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui, China
| | - Di Lu
- Department of Cardiology, China National Petroleum Corporation Central Hospital, Langfang, China
| | - Xiaoshu Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Wenzhou People's Hospital, Wenzhou, China
| | | | - Pei An
- Innovent Biologics, Inc, Suzhou, China
| | - Haoyu Li
- Innovent Biologics, Inc, Suzhou, China
| | - Huan Deng
- Innovent Biologics, Inc, Suzhou, China
| | - Li Li
- Innovent Biologics, Inc, Suzhou, China
| | - Lei Qian
- Innovent Biologics, Inc, Suzhou, China
| | - Yong Huo
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Piccirillo F, Mastroberardino S, Nusca A, Frau L, Guarino L, Napoli N, Ussia GP, Grigioni F. Novel Antidiabetic Agents and Their Effects on Lipid Profile: A Single Shot for Several Cardiovascular Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10164. [PMID: 37373310 PMCID: PMC10299555 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Type-2 diabetes mellitus (DM) represents one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Hyperglycemia and glycemic variability are not the only determinant of the increased cardiovascular (CV) risk in diabetic patients, as a frequent metabolic disorder associated with DM is dyslipidemia, characterized by hypertriglyceridemia, decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels and a shift towards small dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. This pathological alteration, also called diabetic dyslipidemia, represents a relevant factor which could promotes atherosclerosis and subsequently an increased CV morbidity and mortality. Recently, the introduction of novel antidiabetic agents, such as sodium glucose transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), has been associated with a significant improvement in CV outcomes. Beyond their known action on glycemia, their positive effects on the CV system also seems to be related to an ameliorated lipidic profile. In this context, this narrative review summarizes the current knowledge regarding these novel anti-diabetic drugs and their effects on diabetic dyslipidemia, which could explain the provided global benefit to the cardiovascular system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Piccirillo
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy; (F.P.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (L.G.); (N.N.); (G.P.U.); (F.G.)
- Research Unit of Cardiovascular Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Sara Mastroberardino
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy; (F.P.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (L.G.); (N.N.); (G.P.U.); (F.G.)
- Research Unit of Cardiovascular Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Annunziata Nusca
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy; (F.P.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (L.G.); (N.N.); (G.P.U.); (F.G.)
- Research Unit of Cardiovascular Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Frau
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy; (F.P.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (L.G.); (N.N.); (G.P.U.); (F.G.)
- Research Unit of Cardiovascular Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Guarino
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy; (F.P.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (L.G.); (N.N.); (G.P.U.); (F.G.)
- Research Unit of Cardiovascular Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Nicola Napoli
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy; (F.P.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (L.G.); (N.N.); (G.P.U.); (F.G.)
- Research Unit of Endocrinology and Diabetes Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Gian Paolo Ussia
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy; (F.P.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (L.G.); (N.N.); (G.P.U.); (F.G.)
- Research Unit of Cardiovascular Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Francesco Grigioni
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy; (F.P.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (L.G.); (N.N.); (G.P.U.); (F.G.)
- Research Unit of Cardiovascular Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Giglio RV, Muzurović EM, Patti AM, Toth PP, Agarwal MA, Almahmeed W, Klisic A, Ciaccio M, Rizzo M. Treatment with Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 Inhibitors (PCSK9i): Current Evidence for Expanding the Paradigm? J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2023; 28:10742484231186855. [PMID: 37448204 DOI: 10.1177/10742484231186855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) are low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)-lowering drugs that play a critical role in lipoprotein clearance and metabolism. PCSK9i are used in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia and for the secondary prevention of acute cardiovascular events in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). Methods: We focused on the literature from 2015, the year of approval of the PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies, to the present on the use of PCSK9i not only in the lipid field but also by evaluating their effects on metabolic factors. Results: PCSK9 inhibits cholesterol efflux from macrophages and contributes to the formation of macrophage foam cells. PCSK9 has the ability to bind to Toll-like receptors, thus mediating the inflammatory response and binding to scavenger receptor B/cluster of differentiation 36. PCSK9i lower the entire spectrum of apolipoprotein B-100 containing lipoproteins (LDL, very LDLs, intermediate-density lipoproteins, and lipoprotein[a]) in high CVD-risk patients. Moreover, PCSK9 inhibitors are neutral on risk for new-onset diabetes mellitus and might have a beneficial impact on the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by improving lipid and inflammatory biomarker profiles, steatosis biomarkers such as the triglyceride-glucose index, and hepatic steatosis index, although there are no comprehensive studies with long-term follow-up studies. Conclusion: The discovery of PCSK9i has opened a new era in therapeutic management in patients with hypercholesterolemia and high cardiovascular risk. Increasingly, there has been mounting scientific and clinical evidence supporting the safety and tolerability of PCSK9i.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Vincenza Giglio
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience, and Advanced Diagnostics, Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University-Hospital, Palermo, Italy
| | - Emir M Muzurović
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology Section, Clinical Centre of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Angelo Maria Patti
- Internal Medicine Unit, "Vittorio Emanuele II" Hospital, Castelvetrano, Italy
| | - Peter P Toth
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Manyoo A Agarwal
- Heart and Vascular Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Wael Almahmeed
- Heart and Vascular Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Aleksandra Klisic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro
- Primary Health Care Center, Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Marcello Ciaccio
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience, and Advanced Diagnostics, Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University-Hospital, Palermo, Italy
| | - Manfredi Rizzo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia, Columbia, SC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen H, Chen X. PCSK9 inhibitors for acute coronary syndrome: the era of early implementation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1138787. [PMID: 37200976 PMCID: PMC10185746 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1138787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors, a new cholesterol-lowering strategy, can decrease low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels by inhibiting PCSK9 and reducing the degradation of LDL receptors; thus, they are impacting the management of dyslipidemia to the prevention of cardiovascular events. Recent guidelines recommend PCSK9 inhibitors for patients who fail to achieve target lipids after ezetimibe/statin therapy. As PCSK9 inhibitors have been demonstrated to significantly and safely reduce LDL-C, discussions have begun to explore its optimal timing in coronary artery disease, especially in subjects with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Also, their additional benefits, such as anti-inflammatory effects, plaque regression effects, and cardiovascular event prevention, have become the focus of recent research. Several studies, including EPIC-STEMI, suggest the lipid-lowering effects of early PCSK9 inhibitors in ACS patients, while some studies such as PACMAN-AMI suggest that early PCSK9 inhibitors can decelerate plaque progression and reduce short-term risks of cardiovascular events. Thus, PCSK9 inhibitors are entering the era of early implementation. In this review, we are committed to summarizing the multidimensional benefits of early implementation of PCSK9 inhibitors in ACS.
Collapse
|