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Fang S, Zheng L, Shu GF, Xiaoxiao C, Guo X, Ding Y, Yang W, Chen J, Zhao Z, Tu J, Chen M, Ji JS. Multiple Immunomodulatory Strategies Based on Targeted Regulation of Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 and Immune Homeostasis against Hepatocellular Carcinoma. ACS NANO 2024; 18:8811-8826. [PMID: 38466366 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c11775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is the most promising systemic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the outcome remains poor. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) plays a role in altering cell-surface protein levels, potentially undermining the efficacy of immunotherapy against tumors. This highlights its potential as a target for antitumor therapy. Herein, CaCO3-based nanoparticles coencapsulated with DOX, an immunogenic cell death (ICD) inducer, and evolocumab was developed to enhanced the efficacy of immunotherapy. The obtained DOX/evolocumab-loaded CaCO3 nanoparticle (named DECP) exhibits a good capacity of acid neutralization and causes ICD of cancer cells. In addition, DECP is able to evaluate the cell-surface level of MHC-I, a biomarker that correlates positively with patients' overall survival. Upon intravenous injection, DECP accumulates within the tumor site, leading to growth inhibition of hepa1-6 bearing subcutaneous tumors. Specifically, DECP treatment causes augmented ratios of matured dendritic cells, tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells and natural killing cells, while concurrently depleting Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. Peritumoral delivery of DECP enhances the immune response of distant tumors and exhibits antitumor effects when combined with intravenous αPD-L1 therapy in a bilateral tumor model. This study presents CaCO3-based nanoparticles with multiple immunomodulatory strategies against hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting PCSK9 inhibition and modulating immune homeostasis in the unfavorable TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiji Fang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Liyun Zheng
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
- Department of radiology, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Gao-Feng Shu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine of Lishui, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Chen Xiaoxiao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Xiaoju Guo
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
- Department of radiology, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Yiming Ding
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Wenjing Yang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Jiale Chen
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Zhongwei Zhao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Jianfei Tu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Minjiang Chen
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Jian-Song Ji
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Imaging and Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui 323000, China
- Clinical College of The Affiliated Central Hospital, School of Medcine, Lishui University, Lishui 323000, China
- Department of radiology, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Lishui 323000, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine of Lishui, Lishui 323000, China
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Surma S, Sahebkar A, Banach M. Whether and Why Do We Need a Vaccine Against Atherosclerosis? Can We Expect It Anytime Soon? Curr Atheroscler Rep 2024; 26:59-71. [PMID: 38165521 PMCID: PMC10881686 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-023-01186-z] [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] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a leading cause of premature death. Lipid disorders, particularly elevated serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), contribute significantly to ASCVD. The risk of developing ASCVD is influenced by the duration of exposure to elevated LDL-C concentrations (cholesterol-years concept). Implementing lipid-lowering treatments based on the principles of "the earlier the better," "the lower the better," and "the longer the better" has been shown to reduce cardiovascular risk and significantly extend lifespan. Despite the availability of numerous lipid-lowering drugs, achieving satisfactory control of lipid disorders remains very challenging. Therefore, there is a need for novel approaches to improve treatment adherence. RECENT FINDINGS One promising solution under investigation is the development of an anti-PCSK9 vaccine, which could be administered annually to provide long-term control over LDL-C concentrations. Experimental studies and the sole clinical trial conducted thus far have demonstrated that the anti-PCSK9 vaccine induces a durable immune response associated with lipid-lowering and anti-atherosclerotic effects. Furthermore, it has exhibited good tolerability and a satisfactory safety profile. However, we still need data from phase 2, 3, and cardiovascular outcome trial to confirm its safety and efficacy and add value in the armamentarium of available and perspective lipid-lowering drugs. This article highlights the significance of developing an anti-PCSK9 vaccine and provides an overview of the current knowledge on various anti-PCSK9 vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanisław Surma
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752, Katowice, 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
| | - 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.
- Department of Cardiology and Adult Congenital Heart Diseases, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), 93-338, Lodz, Poland.
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Chan DC, Watts GF. The Promise of PCSK9 and Lipoprotein(a) as Targets for Gene Silencing Therapies. Clin Ther 2023; 45:1034-1046. [PMID: 37524569 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2023.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE High plasma concentrations of LDL and lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) are independent and causal risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). There is an unmet therapeutic need for high-risk patients with elevated levels of LDL-C and/or Lp(a). Recent advances in the development of nucleic acids for gene silencing (ie, triantennary N-acetylgalactosamine conjugated antisense-oligonucleotides [ASOs] and small interfering RNA [siRNA]) targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and Lp(a) offer effective and sustainable therapies. METHODS Related articles in the English language were identified through a search for original and review articles in the PubMed database using the following key terms: cardiovascular disease, dyslipidemia, PCSK9 inhibitors, Lp(a), LDL-cholesterol, familial hypercholesterolemia, siRNA, and antisense oligonucleotide and clinical trials (either alone or in combination). FINDINGS Inclisiran, the most advanced siRNA-treatment targeting hepatic PCSK9, is well tolerated, producing a >30% reduction on LDL-C levels in randomized controlled trials. Pelacarsen is the most clinical advanced ASO, whereas olpasiran and SLN360 are the 2 siRNAs directed against the mRNA of the LPA gene. Evidence suggests that all Lp(a)-targeting agents are safe and well tolerated, with robust and sustained reduction in plasma Lp(a) concentration up to 70% to 90% in individuals with elevated Lp(a) levels. IMPLICATIONS Cumulative evidence from clinical trials supports the value of ASO and siRNA therapies targeting the synthesis of PCSK9 and Lp(a) for lowering LDL-C and Lp(a) in patients with established ASCVD or high risk of ASCVD. Further research is needed to examine whether gene silencing therapy could improve clinical outcomes in patients with elevated LDL and/or Lp(a) levels. Confirmation of the tolerability and cost-effectiveness of long-term inhibition of PCSK9 and Lp(a) with this approach is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dick C Chan
- Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gerald F Watts
- Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Lipid Disorders Clinic, Department of Cardiology and Internal Medicine, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
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Lv Y, Chang L, Yang J, Wen J, Zhao Y, Zhu M, Wu C, Zhao W. Immunogenicity of peptide-based vaccine composed of epitopes from Echinococcus granulosus rEg.P29. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22819. [PMID: 36848174 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201636r] [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: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Echinococcus granulosus is one of the main causes of economic loss in the livestock industry because of its food-borne transmission. Cutting off the transmission route is a valid prevention method, and vaccines are the most effective means of controlling and eliminating infectious diseases. However, no human-related vaccine has been yet marketed. As a genetic engineering vaccine, recombinant protein P29 of E. granulosus (rEg.P29) could provide protection against deadly challenges. In this study, we generated peptide vaccines (rEg.P29T , rEg.P29B , and rEg.P29T+B ) based on rEg.P29 and an immunized model was established by subcutaneous immunization. Further evaluation showed that peptide vaccine immunization in mice induced T helper type 1 (Th1)-mediated cellular immune responses, leading to high levels of rEg.P29 or rEg.P29B -specific antibodies. In addition, rEg.P29T+B immunization can induce a higher antibody and cytokine production level than single-epitope vaccines, and immune memory is also longer. Collectively, these results suggest that rEg.P29T+B has the potential to be developed as an efficient subunit vaccine for use in areas where E. granulosus is endemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongxue Lv
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.,Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
| | - Liangliang Chang
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.,Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jihui Yang
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jia Wen
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.,Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yinqi Zhao
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
| | - Mingxing Zhu
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
| | - Changyou Wu
- Institute of Immunology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.,Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
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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.
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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.
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Sun F, Zhao W, Shen H, Fan N, Zhang J, Liu Q, Xu C, Luo J, Zhao M, Chen Y, Lam KWK, Yang X, Kwok RTK, Lam JWY, Sun J, Zhang H, Tang BZ. Design of Smart Aggregates: Toward Rapid Clinical Diagnosis of Hyperlipidemia in Human Blood. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2207671. [PMID: 36134528 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202207671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Molecular aggregates with environmental responsive properties are desired for their wide practical applications such as bioprobes. Here, a series of smart near-infrared (NIR) luminogens for hyperlipidemia (HLP) diagnosis is reported. The aggregates of these molecules exhibit a twisted intramolecular charge-transfer effect in aqueous media, but aggregation-induced emission in highly viscous media due to the restriction of the intramolecular motion. These aggregates, which can autonomously respond to different environments via switching the aggregation state without changing their chemical structures are described, as "smart aggregates". Intriguingly, these luminogens demonstrate NIR-II and NIR-III luminescence with ultralarge Stokes shifts (>950 nm). Both in vitro detection and in vivo imaging of HLP can be realized in a mouse model. Linear relationships exist between the emission intensity and multiple pathological parameters in blood samples of HLP patients. Thus, the design of smart aggregate facilitates rapid and accurate detection of HLP and provides a promising attempt in aggregate science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiyi Sun
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, P. R. China
| | - Hanchen Shen
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Ni Fan
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Jianyu Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Qingqing Liu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Changhuo Xu
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Jiaming Luo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, P. R. China
| | - Mengying Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Yuyang Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Kristy W K Lam
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Xueqin Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Ryan T K Kwok
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Jacky W Y Lam
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Jianwei Sun
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Hongfei Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, P. R. China
| | - Ben Zhong Tang
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, Division of Life Science, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
- School of Science and Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Aggregate Science and Technology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, P. R. China
- Center of Aggregation-Induced Emission, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, P. R. China
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Abstract
Purpose of Review Since the discovery of PCSK9 in 2003, this proprotein convertase was shown to target specific receptors for degradation in endosomes/lysosomes, including LDLR and other family members and hence to enhance the levels of circulating LDL-cholesterol (LDLc). Accordingly, inhibitors of PCSK9, including monoclonal antibodies blocking its circulating activity and siRNA silencers of its hepatic expression, are now used in clinics worldwide to treat hypercholesterolemia patients effectively and safely in combination with statins and/or ezetimibe. These powerful treatments reduce the incidence of atherosclerosis by at least 20%. Since 2008, novel targets of PCSK9 began to be defined, thereby expanding its roles beyond LDLc regulation into the realm of inflammation, pathogen infections and cellular proliferation in various cancers and associated metastases. Recent Findings Some pathogens such as dengue virus exploit the ability of PCSK9 to target the LDLR for degradation to enhance their ability to infect cells. Aside from increasing the degradation of the LDLR and its family members VLDLR, ApoER2 and LRP1, circulating PCSK9 also reduces the levels of other receptors such as CD36 (implicated in fatty acid uptake), oxidized LDLR receptor (that clears oxidized LDLc) as well as major histocompatibility class-I (MHC-I) receptors (implicated in the immune response to antigens). Thus, these novel targets provided links between PCSK9 and inflammation/atherosclerosis, viral infections and cancer/metastasis. The functional activities of PCSK9, accelerated the development of novel therapies to inhibit PCSK9 functions, including small molecular inhibitors, long-term vaccines, and possibly CRISPR-based silencing of hepatic expression of PCSK9. Summary The future of inhibitors/silencers of PCSK9 function or expression looks bright, as these are expected to provide a modern armamentarium to treat various pathologies beyond hypercholesterolemia and its effects on atherosclerosis.
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Carbone F, Montecucco F, Liberale L. The Role of PCSK9 in Atherogenesis and Other
Inflammatory Diseases. Curr Med Chem 2022; 29:958-959. [DOI: 10.2174/092986732906220218164509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Carbone
- First Clinic of Internal Medicine,
Department of Internal Medicine,
University of Genoa, 6 viale Benedetto,
XV, 16143 Genoa,
Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa – Italian Cardiovascular Network 10 Largo Benzi 16132 Genoa,
Italy
| | - Fabrizio Montecucco
- First Clinic of Internal Medicine,
Department of Internal Medicine,
University of Genoa, 6 viale Benedetto,
XV, 16143 Genoa,
Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa – Italian Cardiovascular Network 10 Largo Benzi ,16132 Genoa,
Italy
| | - Luca Liberale
- First Clinic of Internal Medicine,
Department of Internal Medicine,
University of Genoa, 6 viale Benedetto,
XV, 16143 Genoa,
Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa – Italian Cardiovascular Network, 10 Largo Benzi, 16132 Genoa,
Italy
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