Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9): from structure-function relation to therapeutic inhibition.
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Tibolla G, Norata GD, Artali R, Meneghetti F, Catapano AL
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9): from structure-function relation to therapeutic inhibition.
Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2011 Nov;21(11):835-43. doi: 10.1016/j.numecd.2011.06.002. Epub 2011 Sep 23.
- PubMed ID
- 21943799 [ View in PubMed]
- Abstract
AIMS: This short review aims at summarizing the current information on Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin type 9 (PCSK9) structure and function focusing also on the therapeutic possibilities based on the inhibition of this protein. DATA SYNTHESIS: PCSK9 has been recently discovered as the third gene involved in autosomal dominant hypercholesterolemia. PCSK9 binds and favors degradation of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and thereby modulates the plasma levels of LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C). Some of the natural occurring PCSK9 mutations increase the protein function (gain of function) and cause hypercholesterolemia, whereas loss of function mutations associate with hypocholesterolemia. Since the loss of a functional PCSK9 in humans is not associated with apparent deleterious effects, this protease is an attractive target for the development of lowering plasma LDL-C agents, either alone or in combination with statins. CONCLUSION: Inhibition of PCSK9 is emerging as a novel strategy for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and data obtained from pre-clinical studies show that use of monoclonal antibodies, antisense oligonucleotides and short interfering RNA are effective in reducing LDL-C, clinical studies, accompanied by a better understanding of PCSK9 biology, are now necessary to address whether these new compounds will have a future in clinical practice.