Current Options and Future Perspectives in the Treatment of Dyslipidemia

Exploration of anti-atherosclerotic activity of 1,8-cineole through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vivo efficacy studies in high-fat-diet-induced atherosclerosis in hamsters

The anti-atherogenic potential of liver X receptors (LXRs) has been attributed to their inhibitory role in macrophage-mediated inflammation and promotion of reverse cholesterol transport. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an LXR agonist, 1,8-cineole (Eucalyptol), in atherosclerosis through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vivo efficacy studies in high-fat-diet-induced atherosclerosis in hamsters. Network pharmacology analysis was performed by identifying potential targets of 1,8-Cineole and atherosclerosis, followed by the construction of component-target-disease and protein-protein interaction networks. Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of targets were performed. The top 5 targets were selected for molecular docking studies. Atherosclerosis was induced in male Golden Syrian hamsters, and the results of network pharmacology were verified. Fifty-one overlapped targets were identified for 1,8-cineole and atherosclerosis. In the protein-protein interaction studies, the top 5 ranked proteins were PPARG, FXR, ABCA-1, ABCG1, and LXRΑ. KEGG pathway analysis and molecular docking showed that ABCA-1 and LXRΑ were correlated in atherosclerosis. Animal studies showed amelioration of atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta of animals treated with 1,8-cineole compared to disease control aortas. A dose-dependent attenuation in ABCA-1 levels and inflammatory markers was observed in animals treated with 1,8-cineole, comparable to its levels in normal animals. In conclusion, 1,8-cineole showed anti-atherosclerotic effects in Golden Syrian hamsters via LXRΑ-induced ABCA-1 overexpression.

The therapeutic effect of PCSK9 inhibitors on dyslipidemia: one-year follow up

Despite the availability of statins and lifestyle modifications, many patients with Dyslipidemia struggle to achieve optimal low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) control. PCSK9 inhibitors offer a promising new therapeutic option with superior LDL-C lowering efficacy compared to statins. However, data on their real-world use, particularly in Iran, is limited. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the one-year effects of evolocumab on lipid profiles and potential cardiovascular outcomes in Iranian patients with Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH).This single-center, prospective study evaluated evolocumab effectiveness in lowering LDL-C in 50 Iranian adults with FH. Participants with a documented LDL-C > 190 mg/dL on existing cholesterol medications (excluding PCSK9 inhibitors) and a clinical FH diagnosis was included. After baseline assessments (medical history, demographics, lipid profile), evolocumab was administered subcutaneously every two weeks for one year. Follow-up assessments at year one measured changes in LDL-C, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides. The study enrolled 50 participants with an average age of 55 years old (range 35-80 years).Treatment with evolocumab led to significant improvements in lipid profiles at all follow-up points compared to baseline. On average, LDL-C levels decreased by 105.24 mg/dL, triglycerides decreased by 59.20 mg/dL, and HDL-C levels increased by a modest but significant 4.5 mg/dL after one year(p<0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed no statistically significant interactions between baseline demographics (age, sex, BMI) or lifestyle habits (smoking, alcohol) and changes in lipid levels(p>0.05). However, a significant interaction emerged between baseline lipid levels and their corresponding reductions, suggesting greater improvement in patients with higher baseline values(p<0.05). It is noteworthy that no new cardiovascular events were reported during the study period. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of evolocumab in improving lipid profiles in Iranian patients with FH. The observed reductions in LDL-C and triglycerides, along with a modest increase in HDL-C, suggest potential benefits for cardiovascular risk reduction. The absence of new cardiovascular events during the study is encouraging, but further research with larger and longer-term follow-up is needed to confirm these findings and assess the long-term safety and impact on quality of life.

Monoclonal antibodies for dyslipidemia in adults: a focus on vulnerable patients groups

INTRODUCTION

Dyslipidemia significantly contributes to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Patients with lipid-rich vulnerable plaques are particularly susceptible to cardiovascular complications. Despite available lipid-lowering therapies (LLTs), challenges in effective lipid management remain.

AREAS COVERED

This article reviews monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy in dyslipidemia, particularly focusing on vulnerable plaques and patients. We have reviewed the definitions of vulnerable plaques and patients, outlined the efficacy of traditional LLTs, and discussed in-depth the mAbs targeting PCSK9. We extensively discuss the potential mechanisms, intracoronary imaging, and clinical evidence of PCSK9mAbs in vulnerable plaques and patients. A brief overview of promising mAbs targeting other targets such as ANGPTL3 is also provided.

EXPERT OPINION

Research consistently supports the potential of mAb therapies in treating adult dyslipidemia, particularly in vulnerable patients. PCSK9mAbs are effective in regulating lipid parameters, such as LDL-C and Lp(a), and exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic properties. These antibodies also maintain endothelial and smooth muscle health, contributing to the stabilization of vulnerable plaques and reduction in adverse cardiovascular events. Future research aims to further understand PCSK9 and other targets like ANGPTL3, focusing on vulnerable groups. Overall, mAbs are emerging as a promising and superior approach in dyslipidemia management and cardiovascular disease prevention.

Potential Benefits and Risks Associated with the Use of Statins

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, commonly known as statins, are the primary treatment choice for cardiovascular diseases, which stand as the leading global cause of mortality. Statins also offer various pleiotropic effects, including improved endothelial function, anti-inflammatory properties, reduced oxidative stress, anti-thrombotic effects, and the stabilization of atherosclerotic plaques. However, the usage of statins can be accompanied by a range of adverse effects, such as the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, muscular symptoms, liver toxicity, kidney diseases, cataracts, hemorrhagic strokes, and psychiatric complications. These issues are referred to as statin-associated symptoms (SAS) and are relatively infrequent in clinical trials, making it challenging to attribute them to statin use definitively. Therefore, these symptoms can lead to significant problems, necessitating dose adjustments or discontinuation of statin therapy. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanism of action, potential advantages, and associated risks of statin utilization in clinical settings.

Short-Course High-Intensity Statin Treatment during Admission for Myocardial Infarction and LDL-Cholesterol Reduction-Impact on Tailored Lipid-Lowering Therapy at Discharge

We hypothesized that a short-course high-intensity statin treatment during admission for myocardial infarction (MI) could rapidly reduce LDL-C and thus impact the choice of lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) at discharge. Our cohort comprised 133 MI patients (62.71 ± 11.3 years, 82% male) treated with atorvastatin 80 mg o.d. during admission. Basal LDL-C levels before admission were analyzed. We compared lipid profile variables before and during admission, and LLT at discharge was registered. Achieved theoretical LDL-C levels were estimated using LDL-C during admission and basal LDL-C as references and compared to LDL-C on first blood sample 4-6 weeks after discharge. A significant reduction in cholesterol from basal levels was noted during admission, including total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-C, non-HDL-C, and LDL-C (-39.23 ± 34.89 mg/dL, p < 0.001). LDL-C levels were reduced by 30% in days 1-2 and 40-45% in subsequent days (R2 0.766, p < 0.001). Using LDL-C during admission as a reference, most patients (88.7%) would theoretically achieve an LDL-C < 55 mg/dL with discharge LLT. However, if basal LDL-C levels were considered as a reference, only a small proportion of patients (30.1%) would achieve this lipid target, aligned with the proportion of patients with LDL-C < 55 mg/dL 4-6 weeks after discharge (36.8%). We conclude that statin treatment during admission for MI can induce a significant reduction in LDL-C and LLT at discharge is usually prescribed using LDL-C during admission as the reference, which leads to insufficient LDL-C reduction after discharge. Basal LDL-C before admission should be considered as the reference value for tailored LLT prescription.

Development of New Genome Editing Tools for the Treatment of Hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia is a medical condition characterized by high levels of lipids in the blood. It is often associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Traditional treatment approaches for hyperlipidemia involve lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and the use of medications like statins. Recent advancements in genome editing technologies, including CRISPR-Cas9, have opened up new possibilities for the treatment of this condition. This review provides a general overview of the main target genes involved in lipid metabolism and highlights the progress made during recent years towards the development of new treatments for dyslipidemia.

A study on the chemical stability of cholesterol-lowering drugs in concomitant simple suspensions with magnesium oxide

BACKGROUND

Difficulty in taking solid medicines is a common issue particularly for the elderly because of a decline in swallowing function, also known as dysphagia. For patients with such a dysfunction, a simple suspension method, in which solid medicines are disintegrated and suspended using warm water, has been developed and widely used in Japanese clinical settings. However, there is little information on drug stability in the simple co-suspension of multiple formulations especially including acidic or alkaline ones. In this study, the chemical stability of typical cholesterol-lowering drugs was investigated in a simple co-suspension with alkaline magnesium oxide (MgO) which is frequently used as a laxative or antacid in Japan.

METHODS

A cholesterol-lowering drug (one tablet) was soaked with or without MgO in warm water (55°C), and the vessel was left at room temperature for 10 min or 5 h. The suspensions prepared were then analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Degradation products were analyzed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry for the structural elucidation.

RESULTS

In the simple co-suspension with MgO, no significant degradation was observed for atorvastatin or pravastatin, while a significant decrease of the recovery from the co-suspension was observed for rosuvastatin after 5 h. On the other hand, simvastatin and ezetimibe co-suspended with MgO were partially degraded to simvastatin acid and a pyran compound, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A simple co-suspension with MgO is feasible for atorvastatin, pravastatin, and rosuvastatin, although the rosuvastatin tablet should not be left soaking for a long time. Further it is inadvisable to suspend simvastatin or ezetimibe together with MgO because of their partial degradation.

Advances in Treatment of Dyslipidemia

Dyslipidemias have emerged as prevalent disorders among patients, posing significant risks for the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. These conditions are characterized by elevated levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). This review delves into the current treatment approach, focusing on equalizing these parameters while enhancing the overall quality of life for patients. Through an extensive analysis of clinical trials, we identify disorders that necessitate alternative treatment strategies, notably familial hypercholesterolemia. The primary objective of this review is to consolidate existing information concerning drugs with the potential to revolutionize dyslipidemia management significantly. Among these promising pharmaceuticals, we highlight alirocumab, bempedoic acid, antisense oligonucleotides, angiopoietin-like protein inhibitors, apolipoprotein C-III (APOC3) inhibitors, lomitapide, and cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitors. Our review demonstrates the pivotal roles played by each of these drugs in targeting specific parameters of lipid metabolism. We outline the future landscape of dyslipidemia treatment, envisaging a more tailored and effective therapeutic approach to address this widespread medical concern.

Lipid-Lowering Treatment and the Lipid Goals Attainment in Patients with a Very High Cardiovascular Risk

Hypercholesterolemia is the main cardiovascular (CV) risk factor with a large body of evidence. Our aim was to assess the achievement of the main therapeutic goal of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) in patients with a very high CV risk and a high-dose statin therapy. The study group consisted of 1413 consecutive patients hospitalised at the Upper-Silesian Medical Centre in Katowice due to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) treated with atorvastatin ≥ 40 mg or rosuvastatin ≥ 20 mg. The lipid profile was performed on admission and within 12 months after AMI. The main therapeutic goal was defined as LDL-C < 55 mg%. The study group (n = 1413) included 979 males (69.3%) with arterial hypertension (83.3%), diabetes (33.5%), peripheral artery disease (13.6%) and nicotinism (46.2%). In the study group, only 61 patients (4.3%) were additionally taking ezetimibe. During hospitalisation, the primary LDL-C goal was found in only 186 patients (13.2%). Subsequently, a follow-up lipidogram within 12 months was performed in 652 patients (46%), and the therapeutic goal was achieved in 255 patients (39%). There were 258 (18.26%) patients who died within 12 months after myocardial infarction. The lowest mortality rate was found in the subgroup of patients with LDL-C < 55 mg% during follow-up (11.02%). The primary lipid goal attainment among patients with a high-dose statin and a very high CV risk is low and far from the expected rate. Patients hospitalised for AMI should be given a combination of statin and ezetimibe more frequently. Low LDL-C levels measured at follow-up predict a lower risk of death at 12-month follow-up in a large group of patients.

Beyond LDL: Understanding Triglyceride-Rich Lipoproteins to Tackle Residual Risk

For the past 30 years, statin therapy has been the cornerstone for the reduction in the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) [...].

Recent Pharmacological Options in Type 2 Diabetes and Synergic Mechanism in Cardiovascular Disease

Diabetes Mellitus is a multifactorial disease with a critical impact worldwide. During prediabetes, the presence of various inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress will lead to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, insulin resistance and chronic hyperglycemia will lead to micro- and macrovascular complications (cardiovascular disease, heart failure, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and atherosclerosis). The development through the years of pharmacological options allowed us to reduce the persistence of chronic hyperglycemia and reduce diabetic complications. This review aims to highlight the specific mechanisms with which the new treatments for type 2 diabetes reduce oxidative stress and insulin resistance and improve cardiovascular outcomes.

Targeting macrophages in atherosclerosis using nanocarriers loaded with liver X receptor agonists: A narrow review

Macrophages are involved in the whole process of atherosclerosis, which is characterized by accumulation of lipid and inflammation. Presently, clinically used lipid-lowering drugs cannot completely retard the progress of atherosclerosis. Liver X receptor (LXR) plays a key role in regulation of lipid metabolism and inflammation. Accumulating evidence have demonstrated that synthetic LXR agonists can significantly retard the development of atherosclerosis. However, these agonists induce sever hypertriglyceridemia and liver steatosis. These side effects have greatly limited their potential application for therapy of atherosclerosis. The rapid development of drug delivery system makes it possible to delivery interested drugs to special organs or cells using nanocarriers. Macrophages express various receptors which can recognize and ingest specially modified nanocarriers loaded with LXR agonists. In the past decades, a great progress has been made in this field. These macrophage-targeted nanocarriers loaded with LXR agonists are found to decrease atherosclerosis by reducing cholesterol accumulation and inflammatory reactions. Of important, these nanocarriers can alleviate side effects of LXR agonists. In this article, we briefly review the roles of macrophages in atherosclerosis, mechanisms of action of LXR agonists, and focus on the advances of macrophage-targeted nanocarriers loaded with LXR agonists. This work may promote the potential clinical application of these nanocarriers.