1
|
Mullis DM, Padilla-Lopez A, Wang H, Zhu Y, Elde S, Bonham SA, Yajima S, Kocher ON, Krieger M, Woo YJ. Stromal cell-derived factor-1 alpha improves cardiac function in a novel diet-induced coronary atherosclerosis model, the SR-B1ΔCT/LDLR KO mouse. Atherosclerosis 2024; 395:117518. [PMID: 38627162 PMCID: PMC11254567 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2024.117518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS There are a limited number of pharmacologic therapies for coronary artery disease, and few rodent models of occlusive coronary atherosclerosis and consequent myocardial infarction with which one can rapidly test new therapeutic approaches. Here, we characterize a novel, fertile, and easy-to-use HDL receptor (SR-B1)-based model of atherogenic diet-inducible, fatal coronary atherosclerosis, the SR-B1ΔCT/LDLR KO mouse. Additionally, we test intramyocardial injection of Stromal Cell-Derived Factor-1 alpha (SDF-1α), a potent angiogenic cytokine, as a possible therapy to rescue cardiac function in this mouse. METHODS SR-B1ΔCT/LDLR KO mice were fed the Paigen diet or standard chow diet, and we determined the effects of the diets on cardiac function, histology, and survival. After two weeks of feeding either the Paigen diet (n = 24) or standard chow diet (n = 20), the mice received an intramyocardial injection of either SDF-1α or phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Cardiac function and angiogenesis were assessed two weeks later. RESULTS When six-week-old mice were fed the Paigen diet, they began to die as early as 19 days later and 50% had died by 38 days. None of the mice maintained on the standard chow diet died by day 72. Hearts from mice on the Paigen diet showed evidence of cardiomegaly, myocardial infarction, and occlusive coronary artery disease. For the five mice that survived until day 28 that underwent an intramyocardial injection of PBS on day 15, the average ejection fraction (EF) decreased significantly from day 14 (the day before injection, 52.1 ± 4.3%) to day 28 (13 days after the injection, 30.6 ± 6.8%) (paired t-test, n = 5, p = 0.0008). Of the 11 mice fed the Paigen diet and injected with SDF-1α on day 15, 8 (72.7%) survived to day 28. The average EF for these 8 mice increased significantly from 48.2 ± 7.2% on day 14 to63.6 ± 6.9% on day 28 (Paired t-test, n = 8, p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS This new mouse model and treatment with the promising angiogenic cytokine SDF-1α may lead to new therapeutic approaches for ischemic heart disease.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Chemokine CXCL12/metabolism
- Chemokine CXCL12/genetics
- Disease Models, Animal
- Mice, Knockout
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Receptors, LDL/genetics
- Receptors, LDL/deficiency
- Scavenger Receptors, Class B/genetics
- Male
- Neovascularization, Physiologic/drug effects
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Diet, Atherogenic
- Mice
- Ventricular Function, Left
- Myocardium/pathology
- Myocardium/metabolism
- Diet, High-Fat
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Mullis
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Hanjay Wang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yuanjia Zhu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Stefan Elde
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Spencer A Bonham
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shin Yajima
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Olivier N Kocher
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Monty Krieger
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, MA, USA
| | - Y Joseph Woo
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Nicholls SJ, Nelson AJ. New targets and mechanisms of action for lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory therapies in atherosclerosis: where does the field stand? Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024; 28:375-384. [PMID: 38815057 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2362644] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, despite widespread use of statins. There is a need to develop additional therapeutic strategies that will complement statins to achieve more effective reductions in cardiovascular risk. AREAS COVERED This review provides a comprehensive summary of current areas of therapeutic development targeting both lipid and inflammatory factors implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In addition to develop of novel approaches that will produce more effective lowering of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, clinical trials are currently evaluating the potential to target other atherogenic lipid parameters such as triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and Lp(a), in addition to promoting the biological properties of high-density lipoproteins. Targeting inflammation within the vascular wall has emerged as a new frontier in cardiovascular prevention, with early evidence that use of anti-inflammatory agents have the potential to reduce cardiovascular risk. EXPERT OPINION Clinical practice has an increasing array of therapeutic tools to achieve more effective lowering of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol for high-risk patients. In addition, clinical trials have the potential to deliver a range of additional agents to the clinic, that target alternative lipid and inflammatory mediators. This will permit the potential to personalize cardiovascular prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Adam J Nelson
- Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Muzammil K, Hooshiar MH, Varmazyar S, Omar TM, Karim MM, Aadi S, Kalavi S, Yasamineh S. Potential use of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition and prevention method in viral infection. Microb Cell Fact 2024; 23:90. [PMID: 38528584 PMCID: PMC10962113 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-024-02355-8] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular lipid membranes serve as the primary barrier preventing viral infection of the host cell and provide viruses with a critical initial point of contact. Occasionally, viruses can utilize lipids as viral receptors. Viruses depend significantly on lipid rafts for infection at virtually every stage of their life cycle. The pivotal role that proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin Type 9 (PCSK9) plays in cholesterol homeostasis and atherosclerosis, primarily by post-transcriptionally regulating hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and promoting its lysosomal degradation, has garnered increasing interest. Conversely, using therapeutic, fully humanized antibodies to block PCSK9 leads to a significant reduction in high LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved PCSK9 inhibitors, including inclisiran (Leqvio®), alirocumab (Praluent), and evolocumab (Repatha). At present, active immunization strategies targeting PCSK9 present a compelling substitute for passive immunization through the administration of antibodies. In addition to the current inquiry into the potential therapeutic application of PCSK9 inhibition in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients for hyperlipidemia associated with HIV and antiretroviral therapy (ART), preclinical research suggests that PCSK9 may also play a role in inhibiting hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication. Furthermore, PCSK9 inhibition has been suggested to protect against dengue virus (DENV) potentially and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viruses. Recent evidence regarding the impact of PCSK9 on a variety of viral infections, including HCV, HIV, DENV, and SARS-CoV-2, is examined in this article. As a result, PCSK9 inhibitors and vaccines may serve as viable host therapies for viral infections, as our research indicates that PCSK9 is significantly involved in the pathogenesis of viral infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khursheed Muzammil
- Department of Public Health, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Khamis Mushait Campus, Abha, KSA, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Shirin Varmazyar
- Department of Medicine, Shahroud Islamic azad university of medical sciences, Sharoud, Iran
| | - Thabit Moath Omar
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technics, Al-Noor University College, Nineveh, Iraq
| | - Manal Morad Karim
- Collage of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, 64001, Iraq
| | - Sadeq Aadi
- College of Dentistry, Al-Mustaqbal University, Babylon, 51001, Iraq
| | - Shaylan Kalavi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, faculty of pharmacy, Islamic Azad University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saman Yasamineh
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Xiao Z, Li Y, Xiong L, Liao J, Gao Y, Luo Y, Wang Y, Chen T, Yu D, Wang T, Zhang C, Chen Z. Recent Advances in Anti-Atherosclerosis and Potential Therapeutic Targets for Nanomaterial-Derived Drug Formulations. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2302918. [PMID: 37698552 PMCID: PMC10582432 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, the leading cause of death worldwide, is responsible for ≈17.6 million deaths globally each year. Most therapeutic drugs for atherosclerosis have low delivery efficiencies and significant side effects, and this has hampered the development of effective treatment strategies. Diversified nanomaterials can improve drug properties and are considered to be key for the development of improved treatment strategies for atherosclerosis. The pathological mechanisms underlying atherosclerosis is summarized, rationally designed nanoparticle-mediated therapeutic strategies, and potential future therapeutic targets for nanodelivery. The content of this study reveals the potential and challenges of nanoparticle use for the treatment of atherosclerosis and highlights new effective design ideas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhicheng Xiao
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ RepairSchool of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Yi Li
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ RepairSchool of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Liyan Xiong
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ RepairSchool of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Jun Liao
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ RepairSchool of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Yijun Gao
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ RepairSchool of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Yunchun Luo
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ RepairSchool of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Yun Wang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ RepairSchool of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Ting Chen
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ RepairSchool of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Dahai Yu
- Weihai Medical Area970 Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of PLAWeihai264200China
| | - Tingfang Wang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ RepairSchool of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Chuan Zhang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ RepairSchool of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghai200444China
| | - Zhe‐Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesCollege of Pharmacy and Health SciencesSt. John's UniversityNew York11439USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fowler A, Van Rompay KKA, Sampson M, Leo J, Watanabe JK, Usachenko JL, Immareddy R, Lovato DM, Schiller JT, Remaley AT, Chackerian B. A virus-like particle-based bivalent PCSK9 vaccine lowers LDL-cholesterol levels in non-human primates. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:142. [PMID: 37770440 PMCID: PMC10539315 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00743-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is an important risk factor in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Inhibitors of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), a negative regulator of LDL-C metabolism, have emerged as promising approaches for reducing elevated LDL-C levels. Here, we evaluated the cholesterol-lowering efficacy of virus-like particle (VLP) based vaccines that target epitopes found within the LDL receptor (LDL-R) binding domain of PCSK9. In both mice and non-human primates, a bivalent VLP vaccine targeting two distinct epitopes on PCSK9 elicited strong and durable antibody responses and lowered cholesterol levels. In macaques, a VLP vaccine targeting a single PCSK9 epitope was only effective at lowering LDL-C levels in combination with statins, whereas immunization with the bivalent vaccine lowered LDL-C without requiring statin co-administration. These data highlight the efficacy of an alternative, vaccine-based approach for lowering LDL-C.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Fowler
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Koen K A Van Rompay
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Maureen Sampson
- Lipoprotein Metabolism Laboratory, Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Javier Leo
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Jennifer K Watanabe
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jodie L Usachenko
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Ramya Immareddy
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Debbie M Lovato
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - John T Schiller
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alan T Remaley
- Lipoprotein Metabolism Laboratory, Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Brandts J, Ray KK. Novel and future lipid-modulating therapies for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Nat Rev Cardiol 2023; 20:600-616. [PMID: 37055535 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-023-00860-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Lowering the levels of LDL cholesterol in the plasma has been shown to reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Several other lipoproteins, such as triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, HDL and lipoprotein(a) are associated with atherosclerosis and ASCVD, with strong evidence supporting causality for some. In this Review, we discuss novel and upcoming therapeutic strategies targeting different pathways in lipid metabolism to potentially attenuate the risk of cardiovascular events. Key proteins involved in lipoprotein metabolism, such as PCSK9, angiopoietin-related protein 3, cholesteryl ester transfer protein and apolipoprotein(a), have been identified as viable targets for therapeutic intervention through observational and genetic studies. These proteins can be targeted using a variety of approaches, such as protein inhibition or interference, inhibition of translation at the mRNA level (with the use of antisense oligonucleotides or small interfering RNA), and the introduction of loss-of-function mutations through base editing. These novel and upcoming strategies are complementary to and could work synergistically with existing therapies, or in some cases could potentially replace therapies, offering unprecedented opportunities to prevent ASCVD. Moreover, a major challenge in the prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases is how to achieve safe, long-lasting reductions in causal exposures. This challenge might be overcome with approaches such as small interfering RNAs or genome editing, which shows how far the field has advanced from when the burden of achieving this goal was placed upon patients through rigorous adherence to daily small-molecule drug regimens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Brandts
- Imperial Centre for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention (ICCP), Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Kausik K Ray
- Imperial Centre for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention (ICCP), Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Moreno-Gonzalez MA, Ortega-Rivera OA, Steinmetz NF. Two decades of vaccine development against atherosclerosis. NANO TODAY 2023; 50:101822. [PMID: 37860053 PMCID: PMC10586238 DOI: 10.1016/j.nantod.2023.101822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is an immune-mediated chronic inflammatory disease that leads to the development of fatty plaques in the arterial walls, ultimately increasing the risk of thrombosis, stroke, and myocardial infarction. The immune response in this complex disease is both atheroprotective and pro-atherogenic, involving both innate and adaptive immunity. Current treatments include the adjustment of lifestyle factors, cholesterol-lowering drugs such as statins, and immunotherapy, whereas vaccine development has received comparatively little attention. In this review, we discuss the potential of antigen-specific vaccination as a preventative approach based on more than 20 years of research and innovation. Vaccination targets include proteins that are more abundant in atherosclerotic patients, such as oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL), apolipoprotein B-100, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 serine protease (PCSK9), cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP), and heat shock proteins HSP60 and HSP65. Immunization with such proteins or their peptide epitopes has been shown to induce T-cell activation, produce antigen-specific antibodies, reduce the size of atherosclerotic lesions, and/or reduce serum cholesterol levels. Vaccination against atherosclerosis therefore offers a new strategy to address the burden on healthcare systems caused by cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A. Moreno-Gonzalez
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92039, USA
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92039, USA
| | - Oscar A. Ortega-Rivera
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92039, USA
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92039, USA
| | - Nicole F. Steinmetz
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92039, USA
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92039, USA
- Institute for Materials Discovery and Design, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92039, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92039, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92039, USA
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92039, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fowler A, Van Rompay KKA, Sampson M, Leo J, Watanabe JK, Usachenko JL, Immareddy R, Lovato DM, Schiller JT, Remaley AT, Chackerian B. A Virus-like particle-based bivalent PCSK9 vaccine lowers LDL-cholesterol levels in Non-Human Primates. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.15.540560. [PMID: 37292981 PMCID: PMC10245564 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.15.540560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is an important risk factor in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Inhibitors of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), a negative regulator of LDL-C metabolism, have emerged as promising approaches for reducing elevated LDL-C levels. Here, we evaluated the cholesterol lowering efficacy of virus-like particle (VLP) based vaccines that target epitopes found within the LDL receptor (LDL-R) binding domain of PCSK9. In both mice and non-human primates, a bivalent VLP vaccine targeting two distinct epitopes on PCSK9 elicited strong and durable antibody responses and lowered cholesterol levels. In macaques, a VLP vaccine targeting a single PCSK9 epitope was only effective at lowering LDL-C levels in combination with statins, whereas immunization with the bivalent vaccine lowered LDL-C without requiring statin co-administration. These data highlight the efficacy of an alternative, vaccine-based approach for lowering LDL-C.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Fowler
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM USA
| | - Koen K. A. Van Rompay
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA USA
| | - Maureen Sampson
- Lipoprotein Metabolism Laboratory, Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Javier Leo
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM USA
| | - Jennifer K. Watanabe
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA USA
| | - Jodie L. Usachenko
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA USA
| | - Ramya Immareddy
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA USA
| | - Debbie M. Lovato
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM USA
| | - John T. Schiller
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Alan T. Remaley
- Lipoprotein Metabolism Laboratory, Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bell AS, Wagner J, Rosoff DB, Lohoff FW. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) in the central nervous system. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 149:105155. [PMID: 37019248 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
The gene encoding proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and its protein product have been widely studied for their role in cholesterol and lipid metabolism. PCSK9 increases the rate of metabolic degradation of low-density lipoprotein receptors, preventing the diffusion of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) from plasma into cells and contributes to high lipoprotein-bound cholesterol levels in the plasma. While most research has focused on the regulation and disease relevance of PCSK9 to the cardiovascular system and lipid metabolism, there is a growing body of evidence that PCSK9 plays a crucial role in pathogenic processes in other organ systems, including the central nervous system. PCSK9's impact on the brain is not yet fully understood, though several recent studies have sought to illuminate its impact on various neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders, as well as its connection with ischemic stroke. Cerebral PCSK9 expression is low but is highly upregulated during disease states. Among others, PCSK9 is known to play a role in neurogenesis, neural cell differentiation, central LDL receptor metabolism, neural cell apoptosis, neuroinflammation, Alzheimer's Disease, Alcohol Use Disorder, and stroke. The PCSK9 gene contains several polymorphisms, including both gain-of-function and loss-of-function mutations which profoundly impact normal PCSK9 signaling and cholesterol metabolism. Gain-of-function mutations lead to persistent hypercholesterolemia and poor health outcomes, while loss-of-function mutations generally lead to hypocholesterolemia and may serve as a protective factor against diseases of the liver, cardiovascular system, and central nervous system. Recent genomic studies have sought to identify the end-organ effects of such mutations and continue to identify evidence of a much broader role for PCSK9 in extrahepatic organ systems. Despite this, there remain large gaps in our understanding of PCSK9, its regulation, and its effects on disease risk outside the liver. This review, which incorporates data from a wide range of scientific disciplines and experimental paradigms, is intended to describe PCSK9's role in the central nervous system as it relates to cerebral disease and neuropsychiatric disorders, and to examine the clinical potential of PCSK9 inhibitors and genetic variation in the PCSK9 gene on disease outcomes, including neurological and neuropsychiatric disease.
Collapse
|
10
|
Poznyak AV, Sukhorukov VN, Eremin II, Nadelyaeva II, Gutyrchik NA, Orekhov AN. Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin 9 as a Modifier of Lipid Metabolism in Atherosclerosis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020503. [PMID: 36831039 PMCID: PMC9953442 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020503] [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: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite being the most common treatment strategy in the management of atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular disease, classical statin therapy has certain disadvantages, including numerous side effects. In addition, a regimen with daily administration of the drug is hard to comply with. Thus, there is a need for modern and more efficient therapeutic strategies in CVD treatment. There is extensive evidence indicating that PCSK9 promotes atherogenesis through a variety of mechanisms. Thus, new treatment methods can be developed that prevent or alleviate atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease by targeting PCSK9. Comprehensive understanding of its atherogenic properties is a necessary precondition for the establishment of new therapeutic strategies. In this review, we will summarize the available data on the role of PCSK9 in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. In the last section, we will consider existing PCSK9 inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia V. Poznyak
- Institute for Atherosclerosis Research, Osennyaya 4-1-207, 121609 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: (A.V.P.); (A.N.O.)
| | - Vasily N. Sukhorukov
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, 125315 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya I. Eremin
- Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery, 2, Abrikosovsky Lane, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina I. Nadelyaeva
- Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery, 2, Abrikosovsky Lane, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Nikita A. Gutyrchik
- Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery, 2, Abrikosovsky Lane, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander N. Orekhov
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, 125315 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: (A.V.P.); (A.N.O.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Momtazi-Borojeni AA, Banach M, Tabatabaei SA, Sahebkar A. Preclinical toxicity assessment of a peptide-based antiPCSK9 vaccine in healthy mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114170. [PMID: 36587555 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition is a novel cholesterol-lowering treatment for decreasing the risk of atherosclerosis. We have previously shown that active immunization using the antiPCSK9 vaccine could decrease hypercholesterolemia and impede the development of atherosclerotic lesions in the experimental model of atherosclerosis. Here, we evaluated the toxicity of the vaccine in healthy mice. METHODS Forty male and female albino mice were divided into 4 experimental groups, including vaccine female (10 mice) and male (10 mice) groups receiving the antiPCSK9 vaccine as well as the corresponding control female (10 mice) and male (10 mice) groups receiving the phosphate buffer. Vaccination was planned based on 4 subcutaneous injections of the vaccine formulation (10 µg/mouse) in bi-weekly intervals. The toxicity study was performed by the subacute protocol, 28 days after the last vaccine injection. To this end, the plasma levels of lipid indexes, urea, creatinine, AST, ALT, ALP, and fasting plasma glucose (FPG), as well as the CBC test were measured. To evaluate histopathological alterations, various tissues including the heart, liver, kidney, spleen, and brain were studied using hematoxylin & eosin (H&E) staining by an expert pathologist. The severity of damage to the tissue was considered based on the standard classification; grade 1 as light damage, grade 2 as moderate damage, grade 3 as near intense damage, and grade 4 as intense damage. RESULTS The results showed non-significant changes of total cholesterol, LDL-C, triglyceride, HDL-C, FBS, creatinine, urea, AST, ALP, ALT, and PAB in the vaccinated mice when compared with control mice. The CBS test indicated that there were no significant changes in the levels of WBC, RBC, HGB, HCT, MCH, MCHC, PLT, LYM, NEUT, MCV, RDW-S, PDW, and MPV in the vaccinated mice when compared with control mice. Evaluating histopathological alterations in various tissues indicated no significant adverse effects in vaccinated mice when compared to control mice. CONCLUSION The findings of the present study indicate that antiPCSK9 is safe and exerts no adverse effects on the function of different organs and blood levels of cellular and biochemical biomarkers in healthy mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Medical University of Lodz, 93-338 Lodz, Poland; Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, 65-417 Zielona Gora, Poland
| | | | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang Y, Fang D, Yang Q, You J, Wang L, Wu J, Zeng M, Luo M. Interactions between PCSK9 and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling in atherosclerosis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1126823. [PMID: 36911736 PMCID: PMC9992811 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1126823] [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: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is an early pathological basis of numerous cardiovascular events that result in death or disability. Recent studies have described PCSK9 as a novel target for the treatment of atherosclerosis; PCSK9 is capable of degrading LDLR on the surface of hepatocytes through the regulation of lipid metabolism, and it can function as a novel inflammatory modulator in atherosclerosis. Inflammasomes are important intracellular multiprotein complexes that promote the inflammatory response in atherosclerosis. Among inflammasomes, the NLRP3 inflammasome is particularly notable because of its important role in the development of atherosclerotic disease. After activation, NLRP3 forms a complex with ASC and pro-caspase-1, converting pro-caspase-1 into activated caspase-1, which may trigger the release of IL-1β and IL-18 and contribute to the inflammatory response. Several recent studies have indicated that there may be interactions between PCSK9 and the NLRP3 inflammasome, which may contribute to the inflammatory response that drives atherosclerosis development and progression. On the one hand, the NLRP3 inflammasome plays an important role via IL-1β in regulating PCSK9 secretion. On the other hand, PCSK9 regulates caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis by initiating mtDNA damage and activating NLRP3 inflammasome signaling. This paper reviews the mechanisms underlying PCSK9 and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the context of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, we describe the current understanding of the specific molecular mechanism underlying the interactions between PCSK9 and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling as well as the drug repositioning events that influence vascular cells and exert beneficial antiatherosclerotic effects. This review may provide a new therapeutic direction for the effective prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis in the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Dan Fang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Qinzhi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingcan You
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Liqun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jianbo Wu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Min Zeng
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Mao Luo
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ataei S, Ganjali S, Banach M, Karimi E, Sahebkar A. The effect of PCSK9 immunization on the hepatic level of microRNAs associated with the PCSK9/LDLR pathway. Arch Med Sci 2023; 19:203-208. [PMID: 36817686 PMCID: PMC9897094 DOI: 10.5114/aoms/152000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of gene expression epigenetic regulators that play roles in regulating genes involved in cholesterol homeostasis, including low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and PCSK9; therefore, miRNAs have been suggested as potential therapeutic targets for treating cardiometabolic disorders. Thus, the present study aimed to assess the effect of immunotherapy with the PCSK9 peptide vaccine on the hepatic expression levels of microRNAs associated with the LDLR pathway, including miRNA-27a, miRNA-30c, and miRNA-191, in normal vaccinated mice. MATERIAL AND METHODS PCSK9 immunogenic peptide and 0.4% alum adjuvant were mixed at a 1 : 1 ratio and used as a vaccine formulation. Male albino mice were randomly assigned to the vaccine or control group. Mice in the vaccine group were injected four times at two-week intervals with a PCSK9 peptide vaccine, and mice in the control group were injected with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). Animal livers were sampled 2 weeks after the last injection to assess miRNA expression levels. The hepatic expression levels of miRNA-27a, miRNA-30c, and miRNA-191 were evaluated by SYBR Green real-time PCR, quantified by a comparative (2- Δ Δ CT) method (fold change (FC)) and normalized to U6 small nuclear RNA (U6snRNA) expression as an internal control. RESULTS The hepatic expression level of miRNA-27a was significantly lower in mice following immunotherapy with the PCSK9 peptide vaccine compared to the control group (FC: 0.731 ±0.1, p = 0.027). Also, there was a borderline significantly lower hepatic expression level of miRNA-30c in the vaccinated group compared to the control (FC: 0.569 ±0.1, p = 0.078). However, no significant differences were found in the hepatic expression level of miRNA-191 between the two studied groups (FC: 0.852 ±0.1, p = 0.343). CONCLUSIONS According to the findings, the PCSK9 peptide vaccine could effectively reduce the hepatic expression level of miRNA-27a and may be helpful in the management of LDL-C level and atherosclerosis, which may be mediated through the LDLR pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarina Ataei
- Department of Biology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Shiva Ganjali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Medical University of Lodz (MUL), Lodz, Poland
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Gora, Poland
| | - Ehsan Karimi
- Department of Biology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sindi AAA. Genetics, Safety, Cost-Effectiveness, and Accessibility of Injectable Lipid-Lowering Agents: A Narrative Review. J Lipids 2023; 2023:2025490. [PMID: 36935878 PMCID: PMC10017216 DOI: 10.1155/2023/2025490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease causes significant personal, financial, and societal burden and is a major cause of mortality and morbidity globally. Dyslipidemia has proven to be a major factor that contributes to its increased incidence; thus, since a long time, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-lowering therapies have been employed to reduce coronary artery disease-associated mortality. The first-line therapy for hyperlipidemia and dyslipidemia is statins. Evidence showed that statins decrease the level of LDL-C resulting in a lower risk of CVD (20-25% for every decrease of 1 mmol/L). However, due to statin intolerance in some patients and despite using maximal doses, they have not been successful in lowering cardiovascular-associated mortality. Moreover, bococizumab was recently suspended due to its higher immunogenicity with time, resulting in less efficacy with long-term use. Alternatives to statins are PCSK9 inhibitors which are administered subcutaneously every two or four weeks. They are injectables with considerable lipid-lowering properties. This narrative review discusses their genetics, safety, tolerability, and cost-effectiveness. It also quantifies their benefit in certain subgroups by analyzing the findings from recent randomized clinical trials. Current data from phase 2 and 3 trials (ORION, ODYSSEY, and FOURIER) suggest a favorable profile for evolocumab, alirocumab, and inclisiran with minimal tolerable side effects and superior efficacy in statin-intolerant patients. Their cost-effectiveness has not yet been established clearly, but future outcomes seem promising.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmajeed Abdulghani A. Sindi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Al-Baha University, Al-Aqiq, Albaha, Saudi Arabia 65779-7738
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Goksøyr L, Skrzypczak M, Sampson M, Nielsen MA, Salanti A, Theander TG, Remaley AT, De Jongh WA, Sander AF. A cVLP-Based Vaccine Displaying Full-Length PCSK9 Elicits a Higher Reduction in Plasma PCSK9 Than Similar Peptide-Based cVLP Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 11:vaccines11010002. [PMID: 36679847 PMCID: PMC9864010 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Administration of PCSK9-specific monoclonal antibodies, as well as peptide-based PCSK9 vaccines, can lower plasma LDL cholesterol by blocking PCSK9. However, these treatments also cause an increase in plasma PCSK9 levels, presumably due to the formation of immune complexes. Here, we utilize a versatile capsid virus-like particle (cVLP)-based vaccine platform to deliver both full-length (FL) PCSK9 and PCSK9-derived peptide antigens, to investigate whether induction of a broader polyclonal anti-PCSK9 antibody response would mediate more efficient clearance of plasma PCSK9. This head-to-head immunization study reveals a significantly increased capacity of the FL PCSK9 cVLP vaccine to opsonize and clear plasma PCSK9. These findings may have implications for the design of PCSK9 and other vaccines that should effectively mediate opsonization and immune clearance of target antigens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louise Goksøyr
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department for Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- AdaptVac Aps, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Maureen Sampson
- Lipoprotein Metabolism Section, Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Morten A. Nielsen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department for Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ali Salanti
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department for Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thor G. Theander
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department for Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alan T. Remaley
- Lipoprotein Metabolism Section, Translational Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | | | - Adam F. Sander
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department for Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- AdaptVac Aps, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Alannan M, Seidah NG, Merched AJ. PCSK9 in Liver Cancers at the Crossroads between Lipid Metabolism and Immunity. Cells 2022; 11:cells11244132. [PMID: 36552895 PMCID: PMC9777286 DOI: 10.3390/cells11244132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic rewiring and defective immune responses are considered to be the main driving forces sustaining cell growth and oncogenesis in many cancers. The atypical enzyme, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), is produced by the liver in large amounts and plays a major role in lipid metabolism via the control of the low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and other cell surface receptors. In this context, many clinical studies have clearly demonstrated the high efficacy of PCSK9 inhibitors in treating hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular diseases. Recent data implicated PCSK9 in the degradation of major histocompatibility complex I (MHC-I) receptors and the immune system as well as in other physiological activities. This review highlights the complex crosstalk between PCSK9, lipid metabolism and immunosuppression and underlines the latest advances in understanding the involvement of this convertase in other critical functions. We present a comprehensive assessment of the different strategies targeting PCSK9 and show how these approaches could be extended to future therapeutic options to treat cancers with a main focus on the liver.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malak Alannan
- Bordeaux Institute of Oncology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, University of Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Nabil G. Seidah
- Laboratory of Biochemical Neuroendocrinology, Montreal Clinical Research Institute, IRCM, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H2W 1R7, Canada
| | - Aksam J. Merched
- Bordeaux Institute of Oncology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, University of Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tu S, He W, Han J, Wu A, Ren W. Advances in imaging and treatment of atherosclerosis based on organic nanoparticles. APL Bioeng 2022; 6:041501. [PMCID: PMC9726224 DOI: 10.1063/5.0127835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, a systemic chronic inflammatory disease, can lead to thrombosis and vascular occlusion, thereby inducing a series of serious vascular diseases. Currently, distinguishing unstable plaques early and achieving more effective treatment are the two main clinical concerns in atherosclerosis. Organic nanoparticles have great potential in atherosclerotic imaging and treatment, showing superior biocompatibility, drug-loading capacity, and synthesis. This article illustrates the process of atherosclerosis onset and the key targeted cells, then systematically summarizes recent progress made in organic nanoparticle-based imaging of different types of targeted cells and therapeutic methods for atherosclerosis, including optical and acoustic-induced therapy, drug delivery, gene therapy, and immunotherapy. Finally, we discuss the major impediments that need to be addressed in future clinical practice. We believe this article will help readers to develop a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of organic nanoparticle-based atherosclerotic imaging and treatment, thus advancing further development of anti-atherosclerosis therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Wenming He
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, 247 Renmin Road, Jiangbei District, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province 315020, China,Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:; ; and
| | | | - Aiguo Wu
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:; ; and
| | - Wenzhi Ren
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:; ; and
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Current progress in the development of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2022; 66:679-710. [PMID: 36469218 PMCID: PMC9734355 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-022-2230-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Vaccines are essential public health tools and play an important role in reducing the burden of infectious diseases in the population. Emerging infectious diseases and outbreaks pose new challenges for vaccine development, requiring the rapid design and production of safe and effective vaccines against diseases with limited resources. Here, we focus on the development of vaccines in broad fields ranging from conventional prophylactic vaccines against infectious diseases to therapeutic vaccines against chronic diseases and cancer providing a comprehensive overview of recent advances in eight different vaccine forms (live attenuated vaccines, inactivated vaccines, polysaccharide and polysaccharide conjugate vaccines, recombinant subunit vaccines, virus-like particle and nanoparticle vaccines, polypeptide vaccines, DNA vaccines, and mRNA vaccines) and the therapeutic vaccines against five solid tumors (lung cancer breast cancer colorectal cancer liver cancer and gastric cancer), three infectious diseases (human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus and human papillomavirus-induced diseases) and three common chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia). We aim to provide new insights into vaccine technologies, platforms, applications and understanding of potential next-generation preventive and therapeutic vaccine technologies paving the way for the vaccines design in the future.
Collapse
|
19
|
Qian Z, Zhao J. Silencing YY1 Alleviates Ox-LDL-Induced Inflammation and Lipid Accumulation in Macrophages through Regulation of PCSK9/ LDLR Signaling. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 32:1406-1415. [PMID: 36330745 PMCID: PMC9720084 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2207.07011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The formation of macrophage foam cells stimulated by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) is deemed an important cause of atherosclerosis. Transcription factor Yin Yang 1 (YY1), which is a universally expressed multifunctional protein, is closely related to cell metabolism disorders such as lipid metabolism, sugar metabolism, and bile acid metabolism. However, whether YY1 is involved in macrophage inflammation and lipid accumulation still remains unknown. After mouse macrophage cell line RAW264.7 cells were induced by ox-LDL, YY1 and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) expressions were found to be increased while low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) expression was lowly expressed. Subsequently, through reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), Western blot analysis, Oil Red O staining and cholesterol quantification, it turned out that silencing of YY1 attenuated the inflammatory response and lipid accumulation in RAW264.7 cells caused by ox-LDL. Moreover, results from the JASPAR database, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay, luciferase reporter assay and Western blot analysis suggested that YY1 activated PCSK9 by binding to PCSK9 promoter and modulated the expression of LDLR in the downstream of PCSK9. In addition, the results of functional experiments demonstrated that the inhibitory effects of YY1 interference on ox-LDL-mediated macrophage inflammation and lipid accumulation were reversed by PCSK9 overexpression. To sum up, YY1 depletion inhibited its activation of PCSK9, thereby reducing cellular inflammatory response, cholesterol homeostasis imbalance, and lipid accumulation caused by ox-LDL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyao Qian
- The Second Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Hospital, No.406, Jiefang South Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300211, P.R. China,Corresponding author Phone: +86-22-60123231 E-mail:
| | - Jianping Zhao
- The Second Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Hospital, No.406, Jiefang South Road, Hexi District, Tianjin 300211, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Momtazi-Borojeni AA, Banach M, Ruscica M, Sahebkar A. The role of PCSK9 in NAFLD/NASH and therapeutic implications of PCSK9 inhibition. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2022; 15:1199-1208. [PMID: 36193738 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2022.2132229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There are inconsistent findings regarding the effect of lipid-lowering agents on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is an important player in cholesterol homeostasis and intracellular lipogenesis, and PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9-i) have been found to be efficient for pharmacological management of hyperlipidemia. AREAS COVERED Whether PCSK9 (itself) or PCSK9-i affects NAFLD is still disputed. To address this question, we review published preclinical and clinical studies providing evidence for the role of PCSK9 in and the effect of PCSK9-I on the development and pathogenesis of NAFLD. EXPERT OPINION The current evidence from a landscape of preclinical and clinical studies examining the role of PCSK9 in NAFLD shows controversial results. Preclinical studies indicate that PCSK9 associates with NAFLD and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) progression in opposite directions. In humans, it has been concluded that the severity of hepatic steatosis affects the correlation between circulating PCSK9 and liver fat content in humans, with a possible impact of circulating PCSK9 in the early stages of NAFLD, but not in the late stages. However, data from clinical trials with PCSK9-i reassure to the safety of these agents, although real-life long-term evidence is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, Medical University of Lodz (MUL), Lodz, Poland.,Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Gora, Poland
| | - Massimiliano Ruscica
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Liu C, Chen J, Chen H, Zhang T, He D, Luo Q, Chi J, Hong Z, Liao Y, Zhang S, Wu Q, Cen H, Chen G, Li J, Wang L. PCSK9 Inhibition: From Current Advances to Evolving Future. Cells 2022; 11:cells11192972. [PMID: 36230934 PMCID: PMC9562883 DOI: 10.3390/cells11192972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a secretory serine protease synthesized primarily by the liver. It mainly promotes the degradation of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDL-R) by binding LDL-R, reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) clearance. In addition to regulating LDL-R, PCSK9 inhibitors can also bind Toll-like receptors (TLRs), scavenger receptor B (SR-B/CD36), low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1), apolipoprotein E receptor-2 (ApoER2) and very-low-density lipoprotein receptor (VLDL-R) reducing the lipoprotein concentration and slowing thrombosis. In addition to cardiovascular diseases, PCSK9 is also used in pancreatic cancer, sepsis, and Parkinson’s disease. Currently marketed PCSK9 inhibitors include alirocumab, evolocumab, and inclisiran, as well as small molecules, nucleic acid drugs, and vaccines under development. This review systematically summarized the application, preclinical studies, safety, mechanism of action, and latest research progress of PCSK9 inhibitors, aiming to provide ideas for the drug research and development and the clinical application of PCSK9 in cardiovascular diseases and expand its application in other diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunping Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou 510080, China
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (L.W.)
| | - Jing Chen
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, China
| | - Huiqi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Dongyue He
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Qiyuan Luo
- Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Jiaxin Chi
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Zebin Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yizhong Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Shihui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Qizhe Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Huan Cen
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Guangzhong Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jinxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Lei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (L.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ma J, Luo J, Sun Y, Zhao Z. Cytokines associated with immune response in atherosclerosis. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:6424-6444. [PMID: 36247305 PMCID: PMC9556506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is an essential mechanism of immune response that involves a large number of different immune cells. Atherosclerosis is essentially an inflammatory disease caused by inappropriate activities of immune cells. During this process, various cytokines activate immune cells, regulate and transmit immune cell signals, and stimulate a local inflammatory environment. In this study, we reviewed the cytokines associated with immune activity in atherosclerosis, including their roles in immune cell activation and mediating immune cell chemotaxis. The findings give important insights into inflammatory immune microenvironment, including basic mechanisms and interactions, providing new ideas and options for clinical detection and treatment of this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiqing Ma
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical UniversityShanghai 200433, China
| | - Jianhua Luo
- National Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology & Institute of Immunology, Naval Medical UniversityShanghai 200433, China
| | - Yudong Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing UniversityNanjing 210002, China
| | - Zhiqing Zhao
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical UniversityShanghai 200433, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhang Z, Dalan R, Hu Z, Wang JW, Chew NW, Poh KK, Tan RS, Soong TW, Dai Y, Ye L, Chen X. Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging Nanomedicine for the Treatment of Ischemic Heart Disease. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2202169. [PMID: 35470476 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202202169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been shown to play key roles in the progression of diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia, which are independent risk factors that lead to atherosclerosis and the development of IHD. Engineered biomaterial-based nanomedicines are under extensive investigation and exploration, serving as smart and multifunctional nanocarriers for synergistic therapeutic effect. Capitalizing on cell/molecule-targeting drug delivery, nanomedicines present enhanced specificity and safety with favorable pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Herein, the roles of ROS in both IHD and its risk factors are discussed, highlighting cardiovascular medications that have antioxidant properties, and summarizing the advantages, properties, and recent achievements of nanomedicines that have ROS scavenging capacity for the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, ischemia/reperfusion, and myocardial infarction. Finally, the current challenges of nanomedicines for ROS-scavenging treatment of IHD and possible future directions are discussed from a clinical perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhan Zhang
- Cancer Centre and Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, 999078, China
| | - Rinkoo Dalan
- Department of Endocrinology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 408433, Singapore
| | - Zhenyu Hu
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Jiong-Wei Wang
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Department of Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Programme, Centre for NanoMedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Nicholas Ws Chew
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Hospital, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Kian-Keong Poh
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Hospital, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Ru-San Tan
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore, 119609, Singapore
| | - Tuck Wah Soong
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Yunlu Dai
- Cancer Centre and Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, 999078, China
- MoE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macao, Taipa, Macau SAR, 999078, China
| | - Lei Ye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Department of Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Programme, Centre for NanoMedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dayar E, Pechanova O. Targeted Strategy in Lipid-Lowering Therapy. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10051090. [PMID: 35625827 PMCID: PMC9138651 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Dyslipidemia is characterized by a diminished lipid profile, including increased level of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and reduced level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c). Lipid-lowering agents represent an efficient tool for the prevention or reduction of progression of atherosclerosis, coronary heart diseases and metabolic syndrome. Statins, ezetimibe, and recently proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors are the most effective and used drugs in clinical lipid-lowering therapy. These drugs are mainly aimed to lower cholesterol levels by different mechanisms of actions. Statins, the agents of the first-line therapy—known as 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors—suppress the liver cholesterol synthesis. Ezetimibe as the second-line therapy can decrease cholesterol by inhibiting cholesterol absorption. Finally, the PCSK9 inhibitors act as an inducer of LDL excretion. In spite of their beneficial lipid-lowering properties, many patients suffer from their serious side effects, route of administration, or unsatisfactory physicochemical characteristics. Clinical demand for dose reduction and the improvement of bioavailability as well as pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile has resulted in the development of a new targeted therapy that includes nanoparticle carriers, emulsions or vaccination often associated with another more subtle form of administration. Targeted therapy aims to exert a more potent drug profile with lipid-lowering properties either alone or in mutual combination to potentiate their beneficial effects. This review describes the most effective lipid-lowering drugs, their favorable and adverse effects, as well as targeted therapy and alternative treatments to help reduce or prevent atherosclerotic processes and cardiovascular events.
Collapse
|
25
|
Xiao X, Luo Y, Peng D. Updated Understanding of the Crosstalk Between Glucose/Insulin and Cholesterol Metabolism. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:879355. [PMID: 35571202 PMCID: PMC9098828 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.879355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucose and cholesterol engage in almost all human physiological activities. As the primary energy substance, glucose can be assimilated and converted into diverse essential substances, including cholesterol. Cholesterol is mainly derived from de novo biosynthesis and the intestinal absorption of diets. It is evidenced that glucose/insulin promotes cholesterol biosynthesis and uptake, which have been targeted by several drugs for lipid-lowering, e.g., bempedoic acid, statins, ezetimibe, and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors. Inversely, these lipid-lowering drugs may also interfere with glucose metabolism. This review would briefly summarize the mechanisms of glucose/insulin-stimulated cholesterol biosynthesis and uptake, and discuss the effect and mechanisms of lipid-lowering drugs and genetic mutations on glucose homeostasis, aiming to help better understand the intricate relationship between glucose and cholesterol metabolism.
Collapse
|
26
|
Inflammation and atherosclerosis: signaling pathways and therapeutic intervention. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:131. [PMID: 35459215 PMCID: PMC9033871 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00955-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 124.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory vascular disease driven by traditional and nontraditional risk factors. Genome-wide association combined with clonal lineage tracing and clinical trials have demonstrated that innate and adaptive immune responses can promote or quell atherosclerosis. Several signaling pathways, that are associated with the inflammatory response, have been implicated within atherosclerosis such as NLRP3 inflammasome, toll-like receptors, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9, Notch and Wnt signaling pathways, which are of importance for atherosclerosis development and regression. Targeting inflammatory pathways, especially the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and its regulated inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β, could represent an attractive new route for the treatment of atherosclerotic diseases. Herein, we summarize the knowledge on cellular participants and key inflammatory signaling pathways in atherosclerosis, and discuss the preclinical studies targeting these key pathways for atherosclerosis, the clinical trials that are going to target some of these processes, and the effects of quelling inflammation and atherosclerosis in the clinic.
Collapse
|
27
|
Li L, Liu S, Tan J, Wei L, Wu D, Gao S, Weng Y, Chen J. Recent advance in treatment of atherosclerosis: Key targets and plaque-positioned delivery strategies. J Tissue Eng 2022; 13:20417314221088509. [PMID: 35356091 PMCID: PMC8958685 DOI: 10.1177/20417314221088509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease of vascular wall, is a progressive pathophysiological process with lipids oxidation/depositing initiation and innate/adaptive immune responses. The coordination of multi systems covering oxidative stress, dysfunctional endothelium, diseased lipid uptake, cell apoptosis, thrombotic and pro-inflammatory responding as well as switched SMCs contributes to plaque growth. In this circumstance, inevitably, targeting these processes is considered to be effective for treating atherosclerosis. Arriving, retention and working of payload candidates mediated by targets in lesion direct ultimate therapeutic outcomes. Accumulating a series of scientific studies and clinical practice in the past decades, lesion homing delivery strategies including stent/balloon/nanoparticle-based transportation worked as the potent promotor to ensure a therapeutic effect. The objective of this review is to achieve a very brief summary about the effective therapeutic methods cooperating specifical targets and positioning-delivery strategies in atherosclerosis for better outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology of Materials, Ministry of Education, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Sainan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology of Materials, Ministry of Education, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Jianying Tan
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology of Materials, Ministry of Education, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Lai Wei
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology of Materials, Ministry of Education, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Dimeng Wu
- Chengdu Daxan Innovative Medical Tech. Co., Ltd., Chengdu, PR China
| | - Shuai Gao
- Chengdu Daxan Innovative Medical Tech. Co., Ltd., Chengdu, PR China
| | - Yajun Weng
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology of Materials, Ministry of Education, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Junying Chen
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology of Materials, Ministry of Education, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Marouf BH, Iqbal Z, Mohamad JB, Bashir B, Schofield J, Syed A, Kilpatrick ES, Stefanutti C, Soran H. Efficacy and Safety of PCSK9 Monoclonal Antibodies in Patients With Diabetes. Clin Ther 2022; 44:331-348. [PMID: 35246337 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2021.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors are novel drugs that have proven efficacy in improving cardiovascular outcomes. Roles for the PCSK9 molecule in metabolic pathways beyond LDL receptor processing and cholesterol homeostasis are well established. PCSK9 genetic variants associated with lower LDL-C levels correlate with a higher incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM), calling into question the appropriateness of these drugs in patients with T2DM and those at high risk of developing diabetes, and whether cardiovascular benefit seen with PCSK9 inhibitors might be offset by resultant dysglycemia. The purpose of this review was to examine the role of PCSK9 protein in glucose homeostasis, the impact of PCSK9 inhibition in relation to glucose homeostasis, and whether some of the cardiovascular benefit seen with PCSK9 inhibitors and statins might be offset by resultant dysglycemia. METHODS Comprehensive literature searches of electronic databases of PubMed, EMBASE, and OVID were conducted by using the search terms hyperlipidaemia, PCSK9, diabetes, and glucose as well as other relevant papers of interest collected by the authors. The retrieved papers were reviewed and shortlisted most relevant ones. FINDINGS Genetically determined lower circulating LDL-C and PCSK9 concentrations may have an incremental effect in increasing T2DM incidence, but any perceived harm is outweighed by the reduced risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease achieved through lower lifetime exposure to LDL-C. PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies are effective and safe in patients with T2DM and those at high risk of developing it. The number-needed-to-treat to prevent one atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease event in the FOURIER (Further Cardiovascular Outcomes Research with PCSK9 Inhibition in Subjects with Elevated Risk) study in the subgroup with diabetes is significantly lower than for those without. Therefore, T2DM or being at high risk to develop it should not be a reason to avoid these agents. The safety of PCSK9 inhibition in relation to glucose homeostasis may depend on the method of inhibition and whether it occurs in circulation or the cells. Data from experimental studies and randomized controlled trials suggest no detrimental effect of PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies on glucose homeostasis. More data and large randomized controlled studies are needed to assess the impact of other methods of PCSK9 inhibition on glucose homeostasis. IMPLICATIONS PCSK9monoclonal antibodies markedly reduce LDL-C and consistently reduce cardiovascular mortality in patients with and without diabetes. Current evidence does not suggest an adverse effect of PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies on glycemic parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bushra Hassan Marouf
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimani, Federal Region of Kurdistan, Iraq
| | - Zohaib Iqbal
- Cardiovascular Trials Unit, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom; Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jamal Basheer Mohamad
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Duhok, Duhok, Federal Region of Kurdistan, Iraq
| | - Bilal Bashir
- Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Schofield
- Cardiovascular Trials Unit, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom; Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Akheel Syed
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Obesity Medicine, Salford Royal NHS Foundation and University Teaching Trust, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - Eric S Kilpatrick
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, and Hull York Medical School, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Claudia Stefanutti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Handrean Soran
- Cardiovascular Trials Unit, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom; Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Cholesterol Lowering Biotechnological Strategies: From Monoclonal Antibodies to Antisense Therapies. A Pre-Clinical Perspective Review. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2022; 37:585-598. [PMID: 35022949 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-021-07293-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the increase in available genetic information and a better understanding of the genetic bases of dyslipidemias has led to the identification of potential new avenues for therapies. Additionally, the development of new technologies has presented the key for developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting not only proteins (e.g., the monoclonal antibodies and vaccines) but also the transcripts (from antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to small interfering RNAs) or the genomic sequence (gene therapies). These pharmacological advances have led to successful therapeutic improvements, particularly in the cardiovascular arena because we are now able to treat rare, genetically driven, and previously untreatable conditions (e.g, familial hypertriglyceridemia or hyperchylomicronemia). In this review, the pre-clinical pharmacological development of the major biotechnological cholesterol lowering advances were discussed, describing facts, gaps, potential future steps forward, and therapeutic opportunities.
Collapse
|
30
|
OUP accepted manuscript. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2022; 29:815-816. [DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwac032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
|
31
|
Coppinger C, Movahed MR, Azemawah V, Peyton L, Gregory J, Hashemzadeh M. A Comprehensive Review of PCSK9 Inhibitors. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2022; 27:10742484221100107. [PMID: 35593194 DOI: 10.1177/10742484221100107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States and worldwide. A major risk factor for this condition is increased serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels for which statins have been successful in reducing serum LDL-C to healthy concentrations. However, patients who are statin intolerant or those who do not achieve their treatment goals while on high-intensity statin therapy, such as those with familial hypercholesterolemia, remain at risk. With the discovery of PCSK9 inhibitors, the ability to provide more aggressive treatment for patients with homozygous and heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia has increased. Ezetimibe reduces LDL-C by 15%-20% when combined with statin.2,3 Protein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors have been found to achieve profound reductions in LDL-C (54%-74%) when added to statins. They have shown dramatic effects at lowering major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in high-risk patients4 with LDL-C levels ≥70 mg/dL and can be used in populations that are statin intolerant or not at goal levels with maximally tolerated statin therapy. PCSK9 inhibitors also produce minimal side effects. Myopathy, a common side effect for patients on statins, has been rare in patients on PCSK9 inhibitors. Randomized trials have shown that reduction in LDL-C has translated to clinical benefits even in patients who have not achieved their LDL-C target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Coppinger
- 8040Pima Community College, Tucson, AZ, USA.,42283University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Mohammad Reza Movahed
- 42283University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.,42283University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Veronica Azemawah
- 8040Pima Community College, Tucson, AZ, USA.,42283University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Lee Peyton
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 12270Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - James Gregory
- 8040Pima Community College, Tucson, AZ, USA.,42283University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Mehrnoosh Hashemzadeh
- 8040Pima Community College, Tucson, AZ, USA.,42283University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Walker HE, Rizzo M, Fras Z, Jug B, Banach M, Penson PE. CRISPR Gene Editing in Lipid Disorders and Atherosclerosis: Mechanisms and Opportunities. Metabolites 2021; 11:857. [PMID: 34940615 PMCID: PMC8707018 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11120857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated circulating concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) have been conclusively demonstrated in epidemiological and intervention studies to be causally associated with the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Enormous advances in LDL-C reduction have been achieved through the use of statins, and in recent years, through drugs targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), a key regulator of the hepatic LDL-receptor. Existing approaches to PCSK9 targeting have used monoclonal antibodies or RNA interference. Although these approaches do not require daily dosing, as statins do, repeated subcutaneous injections are nevertheless necessary to maintain effectiveness over time. Recent experimental studies suggest that clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) gene-editing targeted at PCSK9 may represent a promising tool to achieve the elusive goal of a 'fire and forget' lifelong approach to LDL-C reduction. This paper will provide an overview of CRISPR technology, with a particular focus on recent studies with relevance to its potential use in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harry E. Walker
- School of Biological Sciences, Highfield Campus, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK;
| | - Manfredi Rizzo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (Promise), University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Zlatko Fras
- Centre for Preventive Cardiology, Division of Medicine, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, SI-1525 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
- Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Borut Jug
- Department of Vascular Diseases, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, SI-1525 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Medical University of Lodz, 93338 Lodz, Poland;
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, 65046 Zielona Gora, Poland
| | - Peter E. Penson
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Liverpool L7 8TX, UK
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Marques P, Domingo E, Rubio A, Martinez-Hervás S, Ascaso JF, Piqueras L, Real JT, Sanz MJ. Beneficial effects of PCSK9 inhibition with alirocumab in familial hypercholesterolemia involve modulation of new immune players. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 145:112460. [PMID: 34864314 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is associated with low-grade systemic inflammation, a key driver of premature atherosclerosis. We investigated the effects of inhibiting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) function on inflammatory state, endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with FH. Fourteen patients with FH were evaluated before and 8 weeks after administration of a PCSK9 blocking monoclonal antibody (alirocumab, 150 mg/subcutaneous/14 days). In vivo and ex vivo analysis revealed that alirocumab blunted the attachment of leukocytes to TNFα-stimulated human umbilical arterial endothelial cells (HUAEC) and suppressed the activation of platelets and most leukocyte subsets, which was accompanied by the diminished expression of CX3CR1, CXCR6 and CCR2 on several leukocyte subpopulations. By contrast, T-regulatory cell activation was enhanced by alirocumab treatment, which also elevated anti-inflammatory IL-10 plasma levels and lowered circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines. Plasma levels of IFNγ positively correlated with levels of total and LDL-cholesterol, whereas circulating IL-10 levels negatively correlated with these key lipid parameters. In vitro analysis revealed that TNFα stimulation of HUAEC increased the expression of PCSK9, whereas endothelial PCSK9 silencing reduced TNFα-induced mononuclear cell adhesion mediated by Nox5 up-regulation and p38-MAPK/NFκB activation, concomitant with reduced SREBP2 expression. PCSK9 silencing also decreased endothelial CX3CL1 and CXCL16 expression and chemokine generation. In conclusion, PCSK9 inhibition impairs systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction by constraining leukocyte-endothelium interactions. PCSK9 blockade may constitute a new therapeutic approach to control the inflammatory state associated with FH, preventing further cardiovascular events in this cardiometabolic disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrice Marques
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Institute of Health Research INCLIVA, Av. Menéndez Pelayo 4, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Elena Domingo
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Arantxa Rubio
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, University Clinic Hospital of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibañez 17, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Sergio Martinez-Hervás
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Institute of Health Research INCLIVA, Av. Menéndez Pelayo 4, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, University Clinic Hospital of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibañez 17, 46010 Valencia, Spain; CIBERDEM-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders, ISCIII, Av. Monforte de Lemos 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan F Ascaso
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Institute of Health Research INCLIVA, Av. Menéndez Pelayo 4, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, University Clinic Hospital of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibañez 17, 46010 Valencia, Spain; CIBERDEM-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders, ISCIII, Av. Monforte de Lemos 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Piqueras
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Institute of Health Research INCLIVA, Av. Menéndez Pelayo 4, 46010 Valencia, Spain; CIBERDEM-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders, ISCIII, Av. Monforte de Lemos 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - José T Real
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Institute of Health Research INCLIVA, Av. Menéndez Pelayo 4, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, University Clinic Hospital of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibañez 17, 46010 Valencia, Spain; CIBERDEM-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders, ISCIII, Av. Monforte de Lemos 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Maria-Jesus Sanz
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Institute of Health Research INCLIVA, Av. Menéndez Pelayo 4, 46010 Valencia, Spain; CIBERDEM-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders, ISCIII, Av. Monforte de Lemos 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Momtazi-Borojeni AA, Pirro M, Xu S, Sahebkar A. PCSK9 inhibition-based therapeutic approaches: an immunotherapy perspective. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:980-999. [PMID: 34711156 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666211027125245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors (PCSK9-I) are novel therapeutic tools to decrease cardiovascular risk. These agents work by lowering the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in hypercholesterolemic patients who are statin resistant/intolerant. Current clinically approved and investigational PCSK9-I act generally by blocking PCSK9 activity in the plasma or suppressing its expression or secretion by hepatocytes. The most widely investigated method is the disruption of PCSK9/LDL receptor (LDLR) interaction by fully-humanized monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), evolocumab and alirocumab, which have been approved for the therapy of hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). Besides, a small interfering RNA called inclisiran, which specifically suppresses PCSK9 expression in hepatocytes, is as effective as mAbs but with administration twice a year. Because of the high costs of such therapeutic approaches, several other PCSK9-I have been surveyed, including peptide-based anti-PCSK9 vaccines and small oral anti-PCSK9 molecules, which are under investigation in preclinical and phase I clinical studies. Interestingly, anti-PCSK9 vaccination has been found to serve as a more widely feasible and more cost-effective therapeutic tool over mAb PCSK9-I for managing hypercholesterolemia. The present review will discuss LDL-lowering and cardioprotective effects of PCSK9-I, mainly immunotherapy-based inhibitors including mAbs and vaccines, in preclinical and clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Matteo Pirro
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, 06129. Italy
| | - Suowen Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, First Affiliated Hospital, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei. China
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad. Iran
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
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.
Collapse
|
36
|
Momtazi-Borojeni AA, Jaafari MR, Banach M, Gorabi AM, Sahraei H, Sahebkar A. Pre-Clinical Evaluation of the Nanoliposomal antiPCSK9 Vaccine in Healthy Non-Human Primates. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:749. [PMID: 34358164 PMCID: PMC8309966 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9070749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our previous studies showed the safe preventive and therapeutic effects of immunization using the nanoliposomal antiPCSK9 vaccine called "Liposomal Immunogenic Fused PCSK9-Tetanus plus Alum adjuvant" (L-IFPTA), in mouse models of atherosclerosis. Here we aimed to ascertain the immunogenicity and safety of the L-IFPTA vaccine in a pre-clinical study in healthy non-human primates. METHODS Five male rhesus macaque monkeys were subcutaneously immunized with the L-IFPTA vaccine, four times with bi-weekly intervals. To evaluate immunogenicity, the plasma antiPCSK9 antibody in immunized monkeys was detected and quantified using the ELISA method. The functionality of the induced antiPCSK9 antibodies was determined by the PCSK9/LDLR in vitro binding assay kit. The safety of the vaccine was tested using the evaluation of several major circulating indicators including plasma lipid alterations, inflammatory biomarkers and organ injury biomarkers. RESULTS The resultant data indicated that the L-IFPTA vaccine significantly and highly induced the generation of functional and safe antiPCSK9 antibodies in immunized monkeys. Plasma levels of specific biomarkers indicating organ performance including creatinine, urea, uric acid, bilirubin, ALP, AS, ALT and TSH were not significantly altered. After immunization in healthy monkeys, non-prespecified endpoints (plasma levels of TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C and TG) were non-significantly reduced by 11.6 ± 36%; 16 ± 28%; 22 ± 53% and 24 ± 51%, respectively, while HDL-C was slightly increased by 2 ± 64%. There were also no significant changes in plasma levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory biomarkers. CONCLUSION The L-IFPTA vaccine could efficiently stimulate the host humoral immune response to produce active antibodies that inhibit plasma PCSK9 while not provoking systemic inflammation and not adversely affecting organ performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Abbas Momtazi-Borojeni
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948564, Iran; (A.A.M.-B.); (M.R.J.)
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj 3149969415, Iran
- Iran’s National Elites Foundation, Tehran 9311114578, Iran
| | - Mahmoud R. Jaafari
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948564, Iran; (A.A.M.-B.); (M.R.J.)
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948564, Iran
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Medical University of Lodz, 93-338 Lodz, Poland;
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland
| | - Armita Mahdavi Gorabi
- Research Center for Advanced Technologies in Cardiovascular Medicine, Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1411713138, Iran;
| | - Hedayat Sahraei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 9311114578, Iran;
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948564, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948564, Iran
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948564, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Tombling BJ, Zhang Y, Huang YH, Craik DJ, Wang CK. The emerging landscape of peptide-based inhibitors of PCSK9. Atherosclerosis 2021; 330:52-60. [PMID: 34246818 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2021.06.903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a clinically validated target for treating cardiovascular disease (CVD) due to its involvement in cholesterol metabolism. Although approved monoclonal antibodies (alirocumab and evolocumab) that inhibit PCSK9 function are very effective in lowering cholesterol, their limitations, including high treatment costs, have so far prohibited widespread use. Accordingly, there is great interest in alternative drug modalities to antibodies. Like antibodies, peptides are valuable therapeutics due to their high target potency and specificity. Furthermore, being smaller than antibodies means they have access to more drug administration options, are less likely to induce adverse immunogenic responses, and are better suited to affordable production. This review surveys the current peptide-based landscape aimed towards PCSK9 inhibition, covering pre-clinical to patented drug candidates and comparing them to current cholesterol lowering therapeutics. Classes of peptides reported to be inhibitors include nature-inspired disulfide-rich peptides, combinatorially derived cyclic peptides, and peptidomimetics. Their functional activities have been validated in biophysical and cellular assays, and in some cases pre-clinical mouse models. Recent efforts report peptides with potent sub-nanomolar binding affinities to PCSK9, which highlights their potential to achieve antibody-like potency. Studies are beginning to address pharmacokinetic properties of PCSK9-targeting peptides in more detail. We conclude by highlighting opportunities to investigate their biological effects in pre-clinical models of cardiovascular disease. The anticipation concerning the PCSK9-targeting peptide landscape is accelerating and it seems likely that a peptide-based therapeutic for treating PCSK9-mediated hypercholesterolemia may be clinically available in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Tombling
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia
| | - Yuhui Zhang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia
| | - Conan K Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Abbas Momtazi-Borojeni
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.,Iran's National Elites Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, WAM University Hospital in Lodz, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Mahboobnia K, Pirro M, Marini E, Grignani F, Bezsonov EE, Jamialahmadi T, Sahebkar A. PCSK9 and cancer: Rethinking the link. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 140:111758. [PMID: 34058443 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is emerging as a major problem globally, as it accounts for the second cause of death despite medical advances. According to epidemiological and basic studies, cholesterol is involved in cancer progression and there are abnormalities in cholesterol metabolism of cancer cells including prostate, breast, and colorectal carcinomas. However, the importance of cholesterol in carcinogenesis and thereby the role of cholesterol homeostasis as a therapeutic target is still a debated area in cancer therapy. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK9), a serine protease, modulates cholesterol metabolism by attachment to the LDL receptor (LDLR) and reducing its recycling by targeting the receptor for lysosomal destruction. Published research has shown that PCSK9 is also involved in degradation of other LDLR family members namely very-low-density-lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR), lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP-1), and apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoER2). As a result, this protein represents an interesting therapeutic target for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Interestingly, clinical trials on PCSK9-specific monoclonal antibodies have reported promising results with high efficacy in lowering LDL-C and in turn reducing cardiovascular complications. It is important to note that PCSK9 mediates several other pathways apart from its role in lipid homeostasis, including antiviral activity, hepatic regeneration, neuronal apoptosis, and modulation of various signaling pathways. Furthermore, recent literature has illustrated that PCSK9 is closely associated with incidence and progression of several cancers. In a number of studies, PCSK9 siRNA was shown to effectively suppress the proliferation and invasion of the several studied tumor cells. Hence, a novel application of PCSK9 inhibitors/silencers in cancer/metastasis could be considered. However, due to poor data on effectiveness and safety of PCSK9 inhibitors in cancer, the impact of PCSK9 inhibition in these pathological conditions is still unknown. SEARCH METHODS A vast literature search was conducted to find intended studies from 1956 up to 2020, and inclusion criteria were original peer-reviewed publications. PURPOSE OF REVIEW To date, PCSK9 has been scantly investigated in cancer. The question that needs to be discussed is "How does PCSK9 act in cancer pathophysiology and what are the risks or benefits associated to its inhibition?". We reviewed the available publications highlighting the contribution of this proprotein convertase in pathways related to cancer, with focus on the potential implications of its long-term pharmacological inhibition in cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Mahboobnia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Matteo Pirro
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Angiology and Arteriosclerosis Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Ettore Marini
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Angiology and Arteriosclerosis Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesco Grignani
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Angiology and Arteriosclerosis Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Evgeny E Bezsonov
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology of Cardiovascular System, Institute of Human Morphology, 3 Tsyurupa Street, Moscow 117418, Russia; Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 8 Baltiiskaya Street, Moscow 125315, Russia
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Quchan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Quchan, Iran; Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Xiao Q, Li X, Li Y, Wu Z, Xu C, Chen Z, He W. Biological drug and drug delivery-mediated immunotherapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:941-960. [PMID: 33996408 PMCID: PMC8105778 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The initiation and development of major inflammatory diseases, i.e., cancer, vascular inflammation, and some autoimmune diseases are closely linked to the immune system. Biologics-based immunotherapy is exerting a critical role against these diseases, whereas the usage of the immunomodulators is always limited by various factors such as susceptibility to digestion by enzymes in vivo, poor penetration across biological barriers, and rapid clearance by the reticuloendothelial system. Drug delivery strategies are potent to promote their delivery. Herein, we reviewed the potential targets for immunotherapy against the major inflammatory diseases, discussed the biologics and drug delivery systems involved in the immunotherapy, particularly highlighted the approved therapy tactics, and finally offer perspectives in this field.
Collapse
Key Words
- AAs, amino acids
- ACT, adoptive T cell therapy
- AHC, Chlamydia pneumonia
- ALL, acute lymphoblastic leukemia
- AP, ascorbyl palmitate
- APCs, antigen-presenting cells
- AS, atherosclerosis
- ASIT, antigen-specific immunotherapy
- Adoptive cell transfer
- ApoA–I, apolipoprotein A–I
- ApoB LPs, apolipoprotein-B-containing lipoproteins
- Atherosclerosis
- BMPR-II, bone morphogenetic protein type II receptor
- Biologics
- Bregs, regulatory B lymphocytes
- CAR, chimeric antigen receptor
- CCR9–CCL25, CC receptor 9–CC chemokine ligand 25
- CD, Crohn's disease
- CETP, cholesterol ester transfer protein
- CTLA-4, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein-4
- CX3CL1, CXXXC-chemokine ligand 1
- CXCL 16, CXC-chemokine ligand 16
- CXCR 2, CXC-chemokine receptor 2
- Cancer immunotherapy
- CpG ODNs, CpG oligodeoxynucleotides
- DAMPs, danger-associated molecular patterns
- DCs, dendritic cells
- DDS, drug delivery system
- DMARDs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs
- DMPC, 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine
- DSS, dextran sulfate sodium
- Dex, dexamethasone
- Drug delivery
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- ECs, endothelial cells
- EGFR, epidermal growth factor receptor
- EPR, enhanced permeability and retention effect
- ET-1, endothelin-1
- ETAR, endothelin-1 receptor type A
- FAO, fatty acid oxidation
- GM-CSF, granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor
- HA, hyaluronic acid
- HDL, high density lipoprotein
- HER2, human epidermal growth factor-2
- IBD, inflammatory bowel diseases
- ICOS, inducible co-stimulator
- ICP, immune checkpoint
- IFN, interferon
- IL, interleukin
- IT-hydrogel, inflammation-targeting hydrogel
- Immune targets
- Inflammatory diseases
- JAK, Janus kinase
- LAG-3, lymphocyte-activation gene 3
- LDL, low density lipoprotein
- LPS, lipopolysaccharide
- LTB4, leukotriene B4
- MCP-1, monocyte chemotactic protein-1
- MCT, monocrotaline
- MDSC, myeloid-derived suppressor cell
- MHCs, major histocompatibility complexes
- MHPC, 1-myristoyl-2-hydroxy-sn-glycero-phosphocholine
- MIF, migration inhibitory factor
- MM, multiple myeloma
- MMP, matrix metalloproteinase
- MOF, metal–organic framework
- MPO, myeloperoxidase
- MSCs, mesenchymal stem cells
- NF-κB, nuclear factor κ-B
- NK, natural killer
- NPs, nanoparticles
- NSAIDs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- PAECs, pulmonary artery endothelial cells
- PAH, pulmonary arterial hypertension
- PASMCs, pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells
- PBMCs, peripheral blood mononuclear cells
- PCSK9, proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9
- PD-1, programmed death protein-1
- PD-L1, programmed cell death-ligand 1
- PLGA, poly lactic-co-glycolic acid
- Pulmonary artery hypertension
- RA, rheumatoid arthritis
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- SHP-2, Src homology 2 domain–containing tyrosine phosphatase 2
- SLE, systemic lupus erythematosus
- SMCs, smooth muscle cells
- Src, sarcoma gene
- TCR, T cell receptor
- TGF-β, transforming growth factor β
- TILs, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes
- TIM-3, T-cell immunoglobulin mucin 3
- TLR, Toll-like receptor
- TNF, tumor necrosis factor
- TRAF6, tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6
- Teff, effector T cell
- Th17, T helper 17
- Tph, T peripheral helper
- Tregs, regulatory T cells
- UC, ulcerative colitis
- VEC, vascular endothelial cadherin
- VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor
- VISTA, V-domain immunoglobulin-containing suppressor of T-cell activation
- YCs, yeast-derived microcapsules
- bDMARDs, biological DMARDs
- hsCRP, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein
- mAbs, monoclonal antibodies
- mPAP, mean pulmonary artery pressure
- nCmP, nanocomposite microparticle
- rHDL, recombinant HDL
- rhTNFRFc, recombinant human TNF-α receptor II-IgG Fc fusion protein
- scFv, single-chain variable fragment
- α1D-AR, α1D-adrenergic receptor
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiaotong Li
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yi Li
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhenfeng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Modern Preparation of TCM, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China
| | - Chenjie Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Zhongjian Chen
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Wei He
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Xu J, Shapiro MD. Current Evidence and Future Directions of PCSK9 Inhibition. US CARDIOLOGY REVIEW 2021. [DOI: 10.15420/usc.2020.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent scientific and therapeutic advances in proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition have opened a chapter in the management of hypercholesterolemia, especially in patients who are inadequately controlled on or intolerant to statins. The two PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies, evolocumab and alirocumab, reduce LDL cholesterol by 60% and improve cardiovascular outcomes when taken in addition to statin therapy. More recently, inclisiran, a silencing RNA (siRNA) that inhibits translation of PCSK9 mRNA, demonstrated LDL cholesterol reduction by 45–50% with the advantage of dramatically reduced dose frequency. Other modes of PCSK9 inhibition include small molecule antagonists, vaccines, CRISPR gene editing, and antagonism at various steps of translation, and post-translational processing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqian Xu
- Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Section on Cardiovascular Medicine, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, Winston Salem, NC
| | - Michael D Shapiro
- Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Section on Cardiovascular Medicine, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, Winston Salem, NC
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Momtazi-Borojeni AA, Jaafari MR, Abdollahi E, Banach M, Sahebkar A. Impact of PCSK9 Immunization on Glycemic Indices in Diabetic Rats. J Diabetes Res 2021; 2021:4757170. [PMID: 34504898 PMCID: PMC8423580 DOI: 10.1155/2021/4757170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
METHODS To prepare the anti-PCSK9 vaccine, a peptide construct called Immunogenic Fused PCSK9-Tetanus (IFPT) was linked to the surface of nanoliposome carriers. Healthy rats received four subcutaneous injections of the vaccine at biweekly intervals. Two weeks after the last vaccination, anti-PCSK9 antibody titers, PCSK9 targeting, and inhibition of PCSK9-low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) interaction were evaluated. After verification of antibody generation, the immunized rats were intraperitoneally treated with a single dose (45 mg/kg) of streptozotocin (STZ) to induce diabetes mellitus. The levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG) were measured, and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as well as the insulin tolerance test (ITT) were carried out to assess glycemic status. At the end of the study, the total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglyceride, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations were assayed. Histopathology examination of the liver and pancreas was also performed using the hematoxylin-eosin staining method. RESULTS The prepared nanoliposomal vaccine could strongly induce anti-PCSK9 antibodies in the vaccinated rats. Within one week following the STZ injection, the FBG level was lower in the vaccinated group vs. diabetic control group (49% (-171.7 ± 35 mg/dL, p < 0.001)). In the OGTT, the injected rats showed improved glucose tolerance as reflected by the reduction of blood glucose levels over 180 min, compared with the diabetic controls. Moreover, the ITT demonstrated that, after the insulin injection, blood glucose concentration declined by 49.3% in the vaccinated group vs. diabetic control group. Expectedly, the vaccinated rats exhibited lower (-26.65%, p = 0.03) plasma LDL-C levels compared with the diabetic controls. Histopathology examination of pancreas tissue demonstrated that the pancreatic islets of the vaccinated rats had a slight decline in the population of β-cells and few α-cells. Normal liver histology was also observed in the vaccinated rats. CONCLUSION PCSK9 inhibition through the liposomal IFPT vaccine can improve the glucose and insulin tolerance impairments as well as the lipid profile in diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Abbas Momtazi-Borojeni
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Iran's National Elites Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Reza Jaafari
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elham Abdollahi
- Department of Gynecology, Woman Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, Medical University of Lodz (MUL), Poland
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona-Gora, Zielona-Gora, Poland
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Momtazi-Borojeni AA, Jaafari MR, Afshar M, Banach M, Sahebkar A. PCSK9 immunization using nanoliposomes: preventive efficacy against hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. Arch Med Sci 2021; 17:1365-1377. [PMID: 34522266 PMCID: PMC8425258 DOI: 10.5114/aoms/133885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of the study was to study a nanoliposomal anti-PCSK9 vaccine as a novel approach for cholesterol lowering via PCSK9 inhibition. MATERIAL AND METHODS An immunogenic peptide construct termed immunogenic fused PCSK9-tetanus (IFPT) was displayed on the surface of liposome nanoparticles (L-IFPT) and mixed into alum adjuvant (L-IFPTA+). The manufactured vaccine formulations IFPT, L-IFPT, L-IFPTA+, IFPTA+, and free nanoliposomes were subcutaneously injected four times with bi-weekly intervals in C57BL/6 mice on a severe atherogenic protocol. RESULTS Among the formulations, L-IFPTA+ vaccine was found to elicit the highest IgG response against PCSK9 peptide. The induced PCSK9 antibodies inhibited PCSK9-LDLR interaction through binding to PCSK9 in vaccinated mice. Liver low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) protein was increased in vaccinated mice. L-IFPTA+, L-IFPT and IFPTA+ vaccines reduced total cholesterol by up to -38.13 ±3.8% (p = 0.006), -23 ±4.1% (p = 0.027) and -19.12 ±3% (p = 0.038), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) by up to -57 ±7.7% (p = 0.0003), -41.67 ±4.2% (p = 0.03) and -36.11 ±5% (p = 0.02) in hypercholesterolemic mice, respectively, versus control mice after 8 weeks. Long-term assessment indicated that the vaccine formulations could stimulate a long-lasting humoral immune response against PCSK9 peptide, which was associated with a marked reduction of total cholesterol in L-IFPTA+, L-IFPT and IFPTA+ vaccine groups by up to -82.5 ±7.3% (p = 0.002), -70.54 ±6.2% (p = 0.013) and -72.02 ±8.7% (p = 0.004), respectively, and LDL-C by up to -88.14 ±5.6% (p = 0.002), -55.92 ±8.3% (p = 0.003) and 54.81 ±9.3% (p = 0.003), respectively, versus the pre-vaccination time point adjusted to the control group. Anti-inflammatory Th2 cells and IL-4 cytokine were considerably increased in splenocytes of vaccinated mice. CONCLUSIONS L-IFPTA+ vaccine can induce long-lasting, functional and safe PCSK9-specific antibodies in hypercholesterolemic C57BL/6 mice, providing a long-term protective impact on dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Abbas Momtazi-Borojeni
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Bu-Ali Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Reza Jaafari
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Afshar
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, WAM University Hospital in Lodz, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
- Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), Lodz, Poland
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Guerrero-Beltrán CE, Mijares-Rojas IA, Salgado-Garza G, Garay-Gutiérrez NF, Carrión-Chavarría B. Peptidic vaccines: The new cure for heart diseases? Pharmacol Res 2020; 164:105372. [PMID: 33316382 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease continues to be the most common cause of death worldwide. The global burden is so high that numerous organizations are providing counseling recommendations and annual revisions of current pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments as well as risk prediction for disease prevention and further progression. Although primary preventive interventions targeting risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, smoking, and sedentarism have led to a global decline in hospitalization rates, the aging population has overwhelmed these efforts on a global scale. This review focuses on peptidic vaccines, with the known and not well-known autoantigens in atheroma formation or acquired cardiac diseases, as novel potential immunotherapy approaches to counteract harmful heart disease continuance. We summarize how cancer immunomodulatory strategies started novel approaches to modulate the innate and adaptive immune responses, and how they can be targeted for therapeutic purposes in the cardiovascular system. Brief descriptions focused on the processes that start as either immunologic or non-immunologic, and the ultimate loss of cardiac muscle cell contractility as the outcome, are discussed. We conclude debating how novel strategies with nanoparticles and nanovaccines open a promising therapeutic option to reduce or prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Enrique Guerrero-Beltrán
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Medicina Cardiovascular y Metabolómica, Monterrey, N.L., Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Hospital Zambrano Hellion, TecSalud, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, San Pedro Garza García, N.L., Mexico.
| | - Iván Alfredo Mijares-Rojas
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Medicina Cardiovascular y Metabolómica, Monterrey, N.L., Mexico
| | - Gustavo Salgado-Garza
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Medicina Cardiovascular y Metabolómica, Monterrey, N.L., Mexico
| | - Noé Francisco Garay-Gutiérrez
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Medicina Cardiovascular y Metabolómica, Monterrey, N.L., Mexico
| | - Belinda Carrión-Chavarría
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Medicina Cardiovascular y Metabolómica, Monterrey, N.L., Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Surmounting the endothelial barrier for delivery of drugs and imaging tracers. Atherosclerosis 2020; 315:93-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
46
|
Wu D, Pan Y, Yang S, Li C, Zhou Y, Wang Y, Chen X, Zhou Z, Liao Y, Qiu Z. PCSK9Qβ-003 Vaccine Attenuates Atherosclerosis in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2020; 35:141-151. [PMID: 32725442 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-020-07041-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Our group has developed a therapeutic vaccine targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), named PCSK9Qβ-003. In this study, we investigated the potential effectiveness of the PCSK9Qβ-003 vaccine on atherosclerosis. METHODS Male ApoE-/- mice were randomly assigned to three groups: a phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) group, Qβ virus-like particles (VLP) group, and PCSK9Qβ-003 vaccine group. Mice in the PCSK9Qβ-003 group were injected with the PCSK9Qβ-003 vaccine four times (100 μg/time) over a period of 18 weeks. The effects of the vaccine on atherosclerotic plaque, cholesterol transport, inflammation and apoptosis were investigated. RESULTS The PCSK9Qβ-003 vaccine obviously decreased total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in ApoE-/- mice. Compared with the other groups, the PCSK9Qβ-003 vaccine significantly reduced the lesion area and promoted the stability of atherosclerotic plaque. The vaccine regulated cholesterol transport in the aorta of ApoE-/- mice by up-regulating the expression level of liver X receptor α and ATP binding cassette transporter A1. Additionally, macrophage infiltration and expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and tumor necrosis factor-α were significantly decreased in the mice administered the PCSK9Qβ-003 vaccine. The vaccine also markedly reduced apoptosis in the lesion area of the aorta in ApoE-/- mice. CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrated that the PCSK9Qβ-003 vaccine attenuated the progression of atherosclerosis by modulating reverse cholesterol transport and inhibiting inflammation infiltration and apoptosis, which may provide a novel therapeutic approach for atherosclerosis and greatly improve treatment compliance among patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danyu Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Institute of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Key Lab of Molecular Biological Targeted Therapies of the Ministry of Education, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yajie Pan
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Institute of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Key Lab of Molecular Biological Targeted Therapies of the Ministry of Education, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Shijun Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Institute of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Key Lab of Molecular Biological Targeted Therapies of the Ministry of Education, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Chang Li
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Institute of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Key Lab of Molecular Biological Targeted Therapies of the Ministry of Education, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yanzhao Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Institute of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Key Lab of Molecular Biological Targeted Therapies of the Ministry of Education, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yingxuan Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Institute of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Key Lab of Molecular Biological Targeted Therapies of the Ministry of Education, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Institute of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Key Lab of Molecular Biological Targeted Therapies of the Ministry of Education, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zihua Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Institute of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Key Lab of Molecular Biological Targeted Therapies of the Ministry of Education, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yuhua Liao
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China. .,Institute of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China. .,Key Lab of Molecular Biological Targeted Therapies of the Ministry of Education, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Zhihua Qiu
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China. .,Institute of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China. .,Key Lab of Molecular Biological Targeted Therapies of the Ministry of Education, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Elyasi A, Voloshyna I, Ahmed S, Kasselman LJ, Behbodikhah J, De Leon J, Reiss AB. The role of interferon-γ in cardiovascular disease: an update. Inflamm Res 2020; 69:975-988. [PMID: 32699989 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-020-01382-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death, globally, and its prevalence is only expected to rise due to the increasing incidence of co-morbidities such as obesity and diabetes. Medical treatment of CVD is directed primarily at slowing or reversing the underlying atherosclerotic process by managing circulating lipids with an emphasis on control of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. However, over the past several decades, there has been increasing recognition that chronic inflammation and immune system activation are important contributors to atherosclerosis. This shift in focus has led to the elucidation of the complex interplay between cholesterol and cellular secretion of cytokines involved in CVD pathogenesis. Of the vast array of cytokine promoting atherosclerosis, interferon (IFN)-γ is highly implicated and, therefore, of great interest. METHODS Literature review was performed to further understand the effect of IFN-γ on the development of atherosclerotic CVD. RESULTS IFN-γ, the sole member of the type II IFN family, is produced by T cells and macrophages, and has been found to induce production of other cytokines and to have multiple effects on all stages of atherogenesis. IFN-γ activates a variety of signaling pathways, most commonly the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway, to induce oxidative stress, promote foam cell accumulation, stimulate smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration into the arterial intima, enhance platelet-derived growth factor expression, and destabilize plaque. These are just a few of the contributions of IFN-γ to the initiation and progression of atherosclerotic CVD. CONCLUSION Given the pivotal role of IFN-γ in the advancement of CVD, activation of its signaling pathways is being explored as a driver of atherosclerosis. Manipulation of this key cytokine may lead to novel therapeutic avenues for CVD prevention and treatment. A number of therapies are being explored with IFN-γ as the potential target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ailin Elyasi
- Department of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, NYU Winthrop Hospital, 101 Mineola Boulevard, Suite 4-004, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA
| | - Iryna Voloshyna
- Department of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, NYU Winthrop Hospital, 101 Mineola Boulevard, Suite 4-004, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA
| | - Saba Ahmed
- Department of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, NYU Winthrop Hospital, 101 Mineola Boulevard, Suite 4-004, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA
| | - Lora J Kasselman
- Department of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, NYU Winthrop Hospital, 101 Mineola Boulevard, Suite 4-004, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA
| | - Jennifer Behbodikhah
- Department of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, NYU Winthrop Hospital, 101 Mineola Boulevard, Suite 4-004, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA
| | - Joshua De Leon
- Department of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, NYU Winthrop Hospital, 101 Mineola Boulevard, Suite 4-004, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA
| | - Allison B Reiss
- Department of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, NYU Winthrop Hospital, 101 Mineola Boulevard, Suite 4-004, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Arunsak B, Pratchayasakul W, Amput P, Chattipakorn K, Tosukhowong T, Kerdphoo S, Jaiwongkum T, Thonusin C, Palee S, Chattipakorn N, Chattipakorn SC. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor exerts greater efficacy than atorvastatin on improvement of brain function and cognition in obese rats. Arch Biochem Biophys 2020; 689:108470. [PMID: 32592802 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2020.108470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The accumulation of lipid as a result of long-term consumption of a high-fat diet (HFD) may lead to metabolic and brain dysfunction. Atorvastatin, a recommended first-line lipid-lowering agent, has shown beneficial effects on metabolic and brain functions in several models. Recently, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor was approved as an effective therapeutic drug for dyslipidemia patients. However, few studies have reported on the effect of this PCSK9 inhibitor on brain function. In addition, the comparative efficacy on the improvement of metabolic and brain functions between PCSK9 inhibitor and atorvastatin in obese models have not been elucidated. We hypothesized that PCSK9 inhibitor improves metabolic and brain functions in an obese model to a greater extent than atorvastatin. Thirty-two female rats were fed with either a normal diet (ND) or HFD for 15 weeks. At week 13, ND rats were given normal saline and HFD rats were given either normal saline, atorvastatin (40 mg/kg/day) or PCSK9 inhibitor (4 mg/kg/day) for 3 weeks. Oxidative stress, blood brain barrier breakdown, microglial hyperactivity, synaptic dysplasticity, apoptosis, amyloid proteins production in the hippocampus and cognitive decline were found in HFD-fed rats. Atorvastatin and PCSK9 inhibitor therapies equally attenuated hippocampal apoptosis and amyloid protein production in HFD-fed rats. Interestingly, PCSK9 inhibitor had the greater efficacy than atorvastatin on the amelioration of hippocampal oxidative stress, blood brain barrier breakdown, microglial hyperactivity, synaptic dysplasticity in the hippocampus and cognitive decline. These findings suggest that PCSK9 inhibitor may be another drug of choice for improving brain function in the obese condition with discontinued statin therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Busarin Arunsak
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Wasana Pratchayasakul
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Patchareeya Amput
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kenneth Chattipakorn
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Theetouch Tosukhowong
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Sasiwan Kerdphoo
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Thidarat Jaiwongkum
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Chanisa Thonusin
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Siripong Palee
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nipon Chattipakorn
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Siriporn C Chattipakorn
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 (PCSK9) plays a crucial role in regulating circulating levels of LDL-C as a consequence of its ability to inhibit LDL receptor recycling in the liver. Loss of function variants in the PCSK9 gene result in low LDL-C levels and associate with reduced cardiovascular risk, whereas gain of-function variants associate with hypercholesterolemia and increased risk of early cardiovascular events. Thus, PCSK9 inhibition has been established as an additional approach for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. The aim of this review is to provide a brief overview of current strategies targeting PCSK9 and discuss clinical results of the emerging approaches. RECENT FINDINGS Two monoclonal antibodies targeting circulating PCSK9 (evolocumab and alirocumab) have been approved for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular disease. Later, a gene silencing approach (inclisiran), which inhibits hepatic PCSK9 synthesis, was shown to be as effective as monoclonal antibodies but with a twice a year injection and is currently under evaluation for approval. Due to the elevated costs of such therapies, several other approaches have been explored, including peptide-based anti PCSK9 vaccination, and small oral PCSK9 inhibitors, which are still in preclinical phase. In the coming years, we will assist to a progressive introduction of novel anti-PCSK9 approaches in the clinical practice for the treatment of patients with hypercholesterolemia as well as patients at high cardiovascular risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberico L Catapano
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto S. Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Pirillo
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto S. Giovanni, Milan, Italy.,Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, E. Bassini Hospital, Cinisello Balsamo, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe D Norata
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy. .,Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, E. Bassini Hospital, Cinisello Balsamo, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Stock J. Targeting LDL cholesterol: Early treatment is key to population health. Atherosclerosis 2020; 300:37-38. [PMID: 32253009 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jane Stock
- European Atherosclerosis Society, World Trade Center Göteborg, Mässans Gata 10, SE-412 51, Göteborg, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|