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Search Results (186)

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Keywords = PCSK9 inhibitors

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16 pages, 2377 KiB  
Review
Intensive Lipid-Lowering Therapy Following Acute Coronary Syndrome: The Earlier the Better
by Akshyaya Pradhan, Prachi Sharma, Sudesh Prajapathi, Maurizio Aracri, Ferdinando Iellamo and Marco Alfonso Perrone
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2025, 12(8), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd12080300 - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 807
Abstract
Elevated levels of atherogenic lipoproteins are known to be associated with an increased risk of incident and recurrent cardiovascular events. Knowing that the immediate post-acute coronary syndrome (ACS) period is associated with the maximum risk of recurrent events, the gradual escalation of therapy [...] Read more.
Elevated levels of atherogenic lipoproteins are known to be associated with an increased risk of incident and recurrent cardiovascular events. Knowing that the immediate post-acute coronary syndrome (ACS) period is associated with the maximum risk of recurrent events, the gradual escalation of therapy allows the patient to remain above the targets during the most vulnerable period. In addition, the percentage of lipid-lowering levels for each class of drugs is predictable and has a ceiling. Hence, it is prudent to immediately start with a combination of lipid-lowering drugs following ACS according to the baseline lipid levels. Multiple studies with injectable lipid-lowering agents (PCSK9 inhibitors) such as EVOPACS, PACMAN MI, and HUYGENS MI have shown the feasibility of achieving LDL-C goals by day 28 and beneficial plaque modification in non-infarct-related coronary arteries. Recently, a study from India demonstrated that an upfront triple combination of oral lipid-lowering agents was able to achieve LDL-C goals in a majority of patients in the early post-ACS period. This notion is also supported by a few recent lipid-lowering guidelines advocating for an upfront dual combination of a high-intensity statin and ezetimibe following ACS. Henceforth, the goal should not only be the achievement of lipid targets but also their early achievement. However, the impact of this strategy on long-term cardiovascular outcomes is yet to be ascertained. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Lipids and Lipoproteins on Atherosclerosis)
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42 pages, 1287 KiB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review of the Latest Approaches to Managing Hypercholesterolemia: A Comparative Analysis of Conventional and Novel Treatments: Part II
by Narcisa Jianu, Ema-Teodora Nițu, Cristina Merlan, Adina Nour, Simona Buda, Maria Suciu, Silvia Ana Luca, Laura Sbârcea, Minodora Andor and Valentina Buda
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1150; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081150 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 762
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with hypercholesterolemia identified as a major, but modifiable risk factor. This review serves as the second part of a comprehensive analysis of dyslipidemia management. The first installment laid the groundwork by detailing the [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with hypercholesterolemia identified as a major, but modifiable risk factor. This review serves as the second part of a comprehensive analysis of dyslipidemia management. The first installment laid the groundwork by detailing the key pathophysiological mechanisms of lipid metabolism, the development of atherosclerosis, major complications of hyperlipidemia, and the importance of cardiovascular risk assessment in therapeutic decision-making. It also examined non-pharmacological interventions and conventional therapies, with a detailed focus on statins and ezetimibe. Building upon that foundation, the present article focuses exclusively on emerging pharmacological therapies designed to overcome limitations of standard treatment. It explores the mechanisms, clinical applications, safety profiles, and pharmacogenetic aspects of novel agents such as proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors (alirocumab, evolocumab), small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy (inclisiran), adenosine triphosphate–citrate lyase (ACL) inhibitor (bempedoic acid), microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) inhibitor (lomitapide), and angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3) inhibitor (evinacumab). These agents offer targeted strategies for patients with high residual cardiovascular risk, familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), or statin intolerance. By integrating the latest advances in precision medicine, this review underscores the expanding therapeutic landscape in dyslipidemia management and the evolving potential for individualized care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacotherapy of Dyslipidemias, 2nd Edition)
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20 pages, 365 KiB  
Review
Unraveling the Link Between Aortic Stenosis and Atherosclerosis: What Have We Learned?
by Corina Cinezan, Camelia Bianca Rus and Ioana Tiberia Ilias
Medicina 2025, 61(8), 1375; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61081375 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 445
Abstract
Background: Aortic stenosis (AS) has long been considered a degenerative disease and is typically diagnosed in older men at an advanced stage. However, accumulating evidence has highlighted the similarities between AS and atherosclerosis, particularly regarding shared risk factors and overlapping pathophysiological mechanisms. [...] Read more.
Background: Aortic stenosis (AS) has long been considered a degenerative disease and is typically diagnosed in older men at an advanced stage. However, accumulating evidence has highlighted the similarities between AS and atherosclerosis, particularly regarding shared risk factors and overlapping pathophysiological mechanisms. This connection has led to a paradigm shift, suggesting that AS may be preventable in its early stages. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes the existing literature exploring the parallels between AS and atherosclerosis, focusing on common risk factors, pathogenic pathways, and evolving therapeutic strategies. Clinical trials and translational studies were examined to assess the effectiveness of atherosclerosis-based treatments for AS. Results: Multiple studies have confirmed the shared inflammatory, lipid-mediated, and calcific mechanisms of AS and atherosclerosis. Despite these similarities, therapeutic strategies effective in atherosclerosis, such as statin therapy, have not consistently shown benefits in AS. New medical approaches aim to delay aortic valve replacement and reduce the associated morbidity. The partially overlapping pathogenesis continues to guide future research. Conclusions: While AS and atherosclerosis share several pathogenic features, their clinical courses and treatment responses diverge. Understanding the limits and potential of their overlap may inform future preventive and therapeutic strategies. Earlier detection and targeted intervention in AS remain key goals, drawing on insights from cardiovascular disease management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aortic Stenosis: Diagnosis and Clinical Management)
16 pages, 1684 KiB  
Article
PCSK9 Inhibitor and Potential Decreased Risk of Neoplasms, Especially in Females: A Meta-Analysis
by Tingyang Wei, Zonglin Li, Chu Lin, Yuteng Yang, Changjie Tie, Xiaoling Cai, Fang Lv, Wenjia Yang and Linong Ji
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1095; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081095 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 361
Abstract
Background: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitor (PCSK9i) has been reported to exhibit anti-neoplasm effects. However, the specific impacts remain uncertain. This study aims to evaluate the association between PCSK9i and the risk of neoplasm. Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing [...] Read more.
Background: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitor (PCSK9i) has been reported to exhibit anti-neoplasm effects. However, the specific impacts remain uncertain. This study aims to evaluate the association between PCSK9i and the risk of neoplasm. Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing PCSK9i with other lipid-lowering drugs or placebo in patients, which reported neoplasm events, were included. Data were sourced from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Clinicaltrial.gov website from the inception to June 2024. The primary endpoint was the association between PCSK9i and the risk of overall neoplasm events. Results: A total of 37 RCTs with 108,430 participants were included. PCSK9i treatment was associated with a lower risk of neoplasm compared to non-users (RR = 0.92, 95% CI, 0.85 to 0.99, I2 = 0%). Subgroup analysis revealed a more prominent risk reduction of overall neoplasm in studies with female-dominant populations (male percentage < 50%, RR = 0.47, 95% CI, 0.27 to 0.82, I2 = 0%), with a significant subgroup differences (p = 0.02). Meta-regression analysis also suggested that the lower percentage of males was associated with a decreased risk of neoplasms (β = 0.018, 95% CI, 0.0063, 0.031, p = 0.002). Meanwhile, the decreased risk of neoplasms was independent of LDL-c reduction. Conclusions: PCSK9i therapy was associated with reduced risk of overall neoplasm, especially in female-dominant populations. The benefits for lower risk of neoplasm with PCSK9i treatment were independent of LDL-c reduction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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26 pages, 1239 KiB  
Review
Genomic and Precision Medicine Approaches in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: From Risk Prediction to Therapy—A Review
by Andreas Mitsis, Elina Khattab, Michaella Kyriakou, Stefanos Sokratous, Stefanos G. Sakellaropoulos, Stergios Tzikas, Nikolaos P. E. Kadogou and George Kassimis
Biomedicines 2025, 13(7), 1723; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13071723 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 686
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, prompting significant interest in individualized prevention and treatment strategies. This review synthesizes recent advances in genomic and precision medicine approaches relevant to ASCVD, with a focus on genetic risk scores, [...] Read more.
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, prompting significant interest in individualized prevention and treatment strategies. This review synthesizes recent advances in genomic and precision medicine approaches relevant to ASCVD, with a focus on genetic risk scores, lipid metabolism genes, and emerging gene editing techniques. A structured literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify key publications from the last decade addressing genomic mechanisms, therapeutic targets, and computational tools in ASCVD. Notable findings include the identification of causal genetic variants such as PCSK9 and LDLR, the development of polygenic risk scores for early prediction, and the use of deep learning algorithms for integrative multi-omics analysis. In addition, we highlight current and future therapeutic applications including PCSK9 inhibitors, RNA-based therapies, and CRISPR-based genome editing. Collectively, these advances underscore the promise of precision medicine in tailoring ASCVD prevention and treatment to individual genetic and molecular profiles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Diseases in the Era of Precision Medicine)
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20 pages, 6029 KiB  
Article
Insights into Binding Mechanisms of Potential Inhibitors Targeting PCSK9 Protein via Molecular Dynamics Simulation and Free Energy Calculation
by Xingyu Wu, Xi Zhu, Min Fang, Fenghua Qi, Zhixiang Yin, John Z.H. Zhang, Shihua Luo, Tong Zhu and Ya Gao
Molecules 2025, 30(14), 2962; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30142962 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 371
Abstract
The design of small-molecule inhibitors targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/Kein type 9 (PCSK9) remains a forefront challenge in combating atherosclerosis. While various monoclonal antibodies have achieved clinical success, small-molecule inhibitors are hindered by the unique structural features of the PCSK9 binding interface. In this [...] Read more.
The design of small-molecule inhibitors targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/Kein type 9 (PCSK9) remains a forefront challenge in combating atherosclerosis. While various monoclonal antibodies have achieved clinical success, small-molecule inhibitors are hindered by the unique structural features of the PCSK9 binding interface. In this study, a potential small-molecule inhibitor was identified through virtual screening, followed by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to explore the binding mechanisms between the inhibitor and the PCSK9 protein. Binding free energies were calculated using molecular mechanics/Generalized Born surface area (MM/GBSA) with the interaction entropy (IE) method, and critical hot-spot residues were identified via alanine scanning analysis. Key residues, including ARG237, ILE369, ARG194 and PHE379, were revealed to form critical interactions with inhibitor and play dominant roles during the inhibitor’s binding. In addition, the polarization effect was shown to significantly influence PCSK9–ligand binding. The identified inhibitor exhibited highly similar binding patterns with two known active compounds, providing valuable insights for the rational design and optimization of small-molecule inhibitors targeting PCSK9. This work contributes to the development of more effective treatments for hyperlipidemia and associated cardiovascular diseases. Full article
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21 pages, 749 KiB  
Review
HDL Function Versus Small Dense LDL: Cardiovascular Benefits and Implications
by Claudiu Stoicescu, Cristina Vacarescu and Dragos Cozma
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(14), 4945; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14144945 - 12 Jul 2025
Viewed by 874
Abstract
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) and small dense low-density lipoprotein (sdLDL) represent two critical yet contrasting components in lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk modulation. While HDL has traditionally been viewed as cardioprotective due to its role in reverse cholesterol transport and anti-inflammatory effects, emerging evidence [...] Read more.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) and small dense low-density lipoprotein (sdLDL) represent two critical yet contrasting components in lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk modulation. While HDL has traditionally been viewed as cardioprotective due to its role in reverse cholesterol transport and anti-inflammatory effects, emerging evidence emphasizes that HDL functionality—rather than concentration alone—is pivotal in atheroprotection. Conversely, sdLDL particles are increasingly recognized as highly atherogenic due to their enhanced arterial penetration, oxidative susceptibility, and prolonged plasma residence time. This review critically examined the physiological roles, pathological implications, and therapeutic interventions targeting HDL function and sdLDL burden. Lifestyle modifications, pharmacologic agents including statins, fibrates, PCSK9 inhibitors, and novel therapies such as icosapent ethyl were discussed in the context of their effects on HDL quality and sdLDL reduction. Additionally, current clinical guidelines were analyzed, highlighting a paradigm shift away from targeting HDL-C levels toward apoB-driven risk reduction. Although HDL-targeted therapies remain under investigation, the consensus supports focusing on lowering apoB-containing lipoproteins while leveraging lifestyle strategies to improve HDL functionality. In the setting of heart failure, particularly with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), alterations in HDL composition and elevated sdLDL levels have been linked to endothelial dysfunction and systemic inflammation, further underscoring their relevance beyond atherosclerosis. A comprehensive understanding of HDL and sdLDL dynamics is essential for optimizing cardiovascular prevention strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Patients with Heart Failure—2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 3852 KiB  
Article
PCSK9 Inhibitor Inclisiran Attenuates Cardiotoxicity Induced by Sequential Anthracycline and Trastuzumab Exposure via NLRP3 and MyD88 Pathway Inhibition
by Vincenzo Quagliariello, Massimiliano Berretta, Irma Bisceglia, Martina Iovine, Matteo Barbato, Raffaele Arianna, Maria Laura Canale, Andrea Paccone, Alessandro Inno, Marino Scherillo, Stefano Oliva, Christian Cadeddu Dessalvi, Alfredo Mauriello, Carlo Maurea, Celeste Fonderico, Anna Chiara Maratea, Domenico Gabrielli and Nicola Maurea
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(14), 6617; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26146617 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 546
Abstract
Cardiotoxicity related to anthracyclines and trastuzumab represents a significant clinical challenge in cancer therapy, often limiting treatment efficacy and patient survival. The underlying mechanisms of cardiotoxicity involve the activation of NLRP3 and the MyD88-dependent signaling pathway. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i), [...] Read more.
Cardiotoxicity related to anthracyclines and trastuzumab represents a significant clinical challenge in cancer therapy, often limiting treatment efficacy and patient survival. The underlying mechanisms of cardiotoxicity involve the activation of NLRP3 and the MyD88-dependent signaling pathway. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i), such as inclisiran, are known for their lipid-lowering effects, but emerging data indicate that they may also exert pleiotropic benefits beyond cholesterol reduction. This study investigates whether inclisiran can mitigate the cardiotoxic effects of anthracyclines and trastuzumab through reduction of NLRP3 activation and MyD88 signaling, independently of its effects on dyslipidemia. Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) were exposed to subclinical concentrations of doxorubicin (1 µM) and trastuzumab in sequential therapy (200 nM), alone or in combination with inclisiran (100 nM) for 24 h. After the incubation period, we performed the following tests: determination of cardiomyocytes apoptosis, analysis of intracellular reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation products (including malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxynonenal), intracellular mitofusin-2 and Ca++ levels. Troponin and BNP were quantified through selective ELISA methods. A confocal laser scanning microscope was used to study cardiomyocyte morphology and F-actin staining after treatments. Moreover, pro-inflammatory studies were also performed, including the intracellular expression of NLRP-3, MyD-88 and twelve cytokines/growth factors involved in cardiotoxicity (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL17-α, IFN-γ, TNF-α, G-CSF, GM-CSF). Inclisiran co-incubated with doxorubicin and trastuzumab exerts significant cardioprotective effects, enhancing cell viability by 88.9% compared to only DOXO/TRA treated cells (p < 0.001 for all). Significant reduction of oxidative stress, and intracellular levels of NLRP-3, MyD88, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, IL17-α, TNF-α, G-CSF were seen in the inclisiran group vs. only DOXO/TRA (p < 0.001). For the first time, PCSK9i inclisiran has been shown to exert significant anti-inflammatory effects to reduce anthracycline-HER-2 blocking agent-mediated cardiotoxicity through NLRP-3 and Myd-88 related pathways. The overall conclusions of the study warrant further investigation of the use of PCSK9i in primary prevention of CTRCD in cancer patients, independently from dyslipidemia. Full article
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14 pages, 1778 KiB  
Systematic Review
Safety and Efficacy of Achieving Very Low LDL Cholesterol Concentrations with PCSK9 Inhibitors
by Akshay Machanahalli Balakrishna, Sharanya Kaushik, Sangeetha Tandalam Palanivelu, Noorhan Monther, Shiva P. Ponamgi, Venkata Mahesh Alla and Shantanu M. Patil
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(13), 4562; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14134562 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1082
Abstract
Background: The advent of newer pharmacological agents, particularly proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK-9) inhibitors, in combination with conventional lipid-lowering treatments, has allowed for the significant lowering of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). However, it is unclear if very low LDL-C levels achieved with [...] Read more.
Background: The advent of newer pharmacological agents, particularly proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK-9) inhibitors, in combination with conventional lipid-lowering treatments, has allowed for the significant lowering of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). However, it is unclear if very low LDL-C levels achieved with the use of PCSK-9 inhibitors are associated with increased adverse events that may outweigh potential benefits. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane databases was conducted from their inception to 21 February 2025, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting clinical outcomes with intensive lipid-lowering treatment with PCSK-9 inhibitors leading to very low (<40 mg/dL) LDL-C levels vs. a control group with higher LDL-C levels. The outcomes of interest included the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), neurocognitive disorders, diabetes mellitus, muscle disorders, any adverse events, events leading to drug discontinuation, cataract, hepatobiliary disorders, and cancer. Random effects meta-analysis models were used to calculate the pooled incidence and odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (Cis). Results: A total of six RCTs with 52,951 patients (11,209 very low LDL-C, and 41,742 control) met the inclusion criteria. Compared with patients in the control arm, very low LDL-C was associated with a reduction in MACEs (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.64, 0.89; p < 0.01; I2 = 44.8%). The incidence of most safety outcomes including neurocognitive disorders, diabetes mellitus, muscle disorders, any adverse events, events leading to drug discontinuation, cataract, hepatobiliary disorders, and cancer were comparable between the very low LDL-C and control groups. Conclusions: Very low LDL-C values following intensive lipid-lowering with PCSK-9 inhibitors are associated with a major reduction in cardiovascular events without any significant increase in serious side effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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13 pages, 674 KiB  
Article
PCSK9-Targeting Drugs and Gender: Are There Any Differences?
by Viola Liberati, Giulia Guidotti, Andrea Sorrentino, Margherita Slanzi, Elena Lotti, Felice Crudele, Angela Rogolino, Francesco Alfano, Betti Giusti, Anna Maria Gori, Martina Berteotti and Rossella Marcucci
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(13), 4469; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14134469 - 24 Jun 2025
Viewed by 752
Abstract
Background: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is often perceived as a male-dominant condition, yet recent European data show that more women live with and die from it. Gender disparities have been reported in the management of dyslipidemia, with women less likely to receive high-intensity [...] Read more.
Background: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is often perceived as a male-dominant condition, yet recent European data show that more women live with and die from it. Gender disparities have been reported in the management of dyslipidemia, with women less likely to receive high-intensity lipid-lowering therapy and to reach low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goals. This study aimed to assess sex-specific differences in response to and tolerance of PCSK9-targeted therapies—monoclonal antibodies (evolocumab, alirocumab) and small interfering RNA (inclisiran)—as well as LDL-C goal attainment according to current ESC guidelines. Methods: We conducted a prospective registry of patients initiating PCSK9-targeted therapy at a specialized lipid center between April 2018 and June 2024. Baseline lipid profiles were recorded and monitored over follow-up. Results: Of the 341 patients, 122 (35.8%) were women and 219 (64.2%) were men, with a mean age of 66.4 ± 12.6 years for the women and 63.9 ± 11.8 years for the men. The women more frequently had heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) (61.5% vs. 38.4%, p < 0.001) and a lower prevalence of previous cardiovascular events compared to the men (62.3% vs. 84.5%, p < 0.001). A higher proportion of the women were classified as high cardiovascular risk compared to the men (37.7% vs. 15.5%, p < 0.001). Risk categories were assigned according to ESC guidelines, with LDL-C targets of <70 mg/dL for high-risk patients and <55 mg/dL for very high risk patients, along with a ≥50% LDL-C reduction for both categories. In the very high risk group, fewer women achieved LDL-C targets at the first two follow-up visits (first follow-up: 50.0% vs. 76.6%, p = 0.008; second follow-up: 55.3% vs. 68.1%, p = 0.049). Although treatment prescription and tolerance were similar between sexes, women showed smaller LDL-C reductions at the first follow-up (51.7 ± 23.9% vs. 57.3 ± 24.9%, p = 0.044). Conclusions: PCSK9-targeted therapies were effective in both sexes at third follow-up, although women showed a tendency toward a delayed response and lower target attainment, indicating the potential need for more personalized management strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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17 pages, 44923 KiB  
Article
Inhibition of PCSK9 Attenuates Liver Endothelial Cell Activation Induced by Colorectal Cancer Stem Cells During Liver Metastasis
by Ander Martin, Daniela Gerovska, Marcos J. Arauzo-Bravo, Maitane Duarte García-Escudero, Helena García García, Iratxe Bañares, Naroa Fontal, Geraldine Siegfried, Serge Evrad, Simon Pernot, Abdel-Majid Khatib and Iker Badiola
Cancers 2025, 17(12), 1977; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17121977 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 844
Abstract
Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most prevalent and lethal cancers globally, with liver metastasis representing the leading cause of CRC-related mortality. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has recently gained attention due to its overexpression in colorectal tumor tissues and its [...] Read more.
Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most prevalent and lethal cancers globally, with liver metastasis representing the leading cause of CRC-related mortality. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has recently gained attention due to its overexpression in colorectal tumor tissues and its potential role in driving metastatic progression. This aims to investigate the involvement of PCSK9 in the liver metastatic niche, focusing on its effects on liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), key components of the liver microenvironment. Methods: LSECs were stimulated with conditioned media derived from differentiated colorectal cancer cells and cancer stem cells (CSCs), the latter generated by reprogramming SW620 and CT26 cell lines. RNA sequencing was used to profile gene expression in LSECs. PCSK9 mRNA and protein levels were quantified by qPCR and Western blotting, respectively. PCSK9 expression in CRC liver metastases was evaluated by immunofluorescent staining. Results: PCSK9 was detected in both human and murine LSECs and significantly upregulated following exposure to CSC-conditioned media. Immunofluorescent staining confirmed PCSK9 expression in LSECs within CRC liver metastases. Total RNA sequencing revealed that a pre-treatment of LSECs with the PCSK9 inhibitor PF-06446864 prior to CSC stimulation seems to reduce the expression of microRNAs linked to cell migration and proliferation. Functional assays demonstrated that CSC-conditioned media enhanced LSEC proliferation and migration, effects reversed by PCSK9 inhibition. Conclusions: PCSK9 promotes the activation of LSECs in response to colorectal CSCs, contributing to a pro-metastatic phenotype. These findings highlight PCSK9 as a potential therapeutic target in colorectal liver metastasis. Full article
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14 pages, 1161 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Inclisiran on the Subclinical Inflammatory Markers of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in Patients at High Cardiovascular Risk
by Mateusz Maligłówka, Adrianna Dec, Łukasz Bułdak and Bogusław Okopień
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(6), 832; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18060832 - 1 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1111
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hypercholesterolemia, accompanied by vascular inflammation, leads to the premature initiation and progression of atherosclerosis, and both are considered nowadays as well-established cardiovascular (CV) risk factors. For several years, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9is), drugs that reduce the degradation of the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hypercholesterolemia, accompanied by vascular inflammation, leads to the premature initiation and progression of atherosclerosis, and both are considered nowadays as well-established cardiovascular (CV) risk factors. For several years, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9is), drugs that reduce the degradation of the receptors for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLRs), have appeared to be a very efficient lipid-lowering therapy among patients with complications resulting from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Previous studies showed that drugs used to fight hypercholesterolemia (predominantly statins) have significant pleiotropic effects, including anti-inflammatory effects. To date, data on the potential impact of PCSK9 inhibitors, especially inclisiran, on the course of inflammation is still lacking. Therefore, we conceived a study to evaluate the effects of inclisiran on the markers of subclinical inflammation (e.g., pentraxin 3 (PTX3), interleukin-18 (IL-18), and soluble cluster of differentiation 40 ligand (CD40L)) and compared their magnitude in patients at high CV risk, with and without established heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). Methods: A total of 24 patients at high cardiovascular risk, according to European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines, with or without concomitant HeFH diagnosed using Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) criteria, were enrolled in this study. Lipid concentrations and levels of subclinical inflammatory markers of atherosclerosis were measured at the beginning and after 3 months of therapy. Results: After three months of therapy with inclisiran, a statistically significant reduction included total cholesterol (TC): study group 1: from 287.6 ± 94.15 to 215.2 ± 89.08 [mg/dL], p = 0.022 and study group 2: from 211.71 ± 52.72 to 147.64 ± 55.44 [mg/dL], p < 0.001, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c): study group 1: from 180.79 ± 73.33 to 114.65 ± 71.54 [mg/dL], p = 0.031 and study group 2: from 129.62 ± 46.75 to 63.39 ± 43.6 [mg/dL], p < 0.001. Moreover significant drops were observed in concentrations of PTX3: study group 1: from 1336.33 ± 395.15 to 1121.75 ± 351.17 [pg/mL], p = 0.013 and study group 2: from 1610.76 ± 537.78 to 1376.92 ± 529.19 [pg/mL], p = 0.017), and IL-18: study group 1: from 11.89 (9.72–13.98) to 9.15 (8.62–10.06) [pg/mL], p = 0.005 and study group 2: from 11.58 (10.87–16.97) to 9.65 (8.43–10.95) [pg/mL], p = 0.003). There were no significant changes in the levels of sCD40L. Conclusions: This study confirmed the ability of inclisiran to reduce LDL-c levels in patients at high cardiovascular risk just after one dose of the drug. Furthermore, it appeared that beyond its lipid-lowering effect, the drug may also affect some inflammatory processes involved in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Full article
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25 pages, 1535 KiB  
Review
Risk Factors and Prevention of Cancer and CVDs: A Chicken and Egg Situation
by Maurizio Giuseppe Abrignani, Fabiana Lucà, Vincenzo Abrignani, Mariacarmela Nucara, Daniele Grosseto, Chiara Lestuzzi, Marinella Mistrangelo, Bruno Passaretti, Carmelo Massimiliano Rao and Iris Parrini
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(9), 3083; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14093083 - 29 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2237
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases and cancer are the two primary causes of mortality worldwide. Although traditionally regarded as distinct pathologies, they share numerous pathophysiological mechanisms and risk factors, including chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, obesity, and metabolic dysregulation. Notably, several cancers have been identified as closely [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular diseases and cancer are the two primary causes of mortality worldwide. Although traditionally regarded as distinct pathologies, they share numerous pathophysiological mechanisms and risk factors, including chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, obesity, and metabolic dysregulation. Notably, several cancers have been identified as closely linked to cardiovascular diseases, including lung, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers, as well as hematological malignancies, such as leukemia and lymphoma. Additionally, renal and pancreatic cancers exhibit a significant association with cardiovascular complications, partly due to shared risk factors and the cardiotoxic effects of cancer therapies. Addressing the overlapping risk factors through lifestyle modifications—such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and cessation of smoking and alcohol—has proven effective in reducing both CV and oncological morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, even in patients with established cancer, structured interventions targeting physical activity, nutritional optimization, and smoking cessation have been associated with improved outcomes. Beyond lifestyle modifications, pharmacological strategies play a crucial role in the prevention of both diseases. Several cardiovascular medications, including statins, aspirin, beta-blockers, and metformin, exhibit pleiotropic effects that extend beyond their primary indications, demonstrating potential anti-neoplastic properties in preclinical and observational studies. Recently, novel therapeutic agents have garnered attention for their possible cardioprotective and metabolic benefits. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is), initially developed for managing type 2 diabetes, have shown CV and renal protective effects, alongside emerging evidence of their role in modulating cancer-related metabolic pathways. Inclisiran, a small interfering RNA targeting PCSK9, effectively lowers LDL cholesterol and may contribute to reducing CV risk, with potential implications for tumor biology. Additionally, sacubitril/valsartan, an angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitor, has revolutionized heart failure management by improving hemodynamic parameters and exerting anti-inflammatory effects that may have broader implications for chronic disease prevention. Given the intricate interplay between CVD and cancer, further research is essential to clarify the exact mechanisms linking these conditions and assessing the potential of CV therapies in cancer prevention. This review aims to examine shared risk factors, consider the role of pharmacological and lifestyle interventions, and emphasize crucial epidemiological and mechanistic insights into the intersection of CV and oncological health. Full article
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14 pages, 1515 KiB  
Article
PCSK9 Inhibitors “Fast Track” Use Versus “Stepwise” Lipid-Lowering Therapy in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Retrospective Single-Center Study in a “Real-World” Population
by Davide D’Andrea, Valentina Capone, Alessandro Bellis, Rossana Castaldo, Monica Franzese, Gerardo Carpinella, Fulvio Furbatto, Fulvio La Rocca, Fabio Marsico, Raffaele Marfella, Giuseppe Paolisso, Pasquale Paolisso, Carlo Fumagalli, Maurizio Cappiello, Eduardo Bossone and Ciro Mauro
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(9), 2992; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14092992 - 26 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1123
Abstract
Background: The “fast track” addition (within 48 h) of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) to the optimized oral lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) during hospitalization for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) has been shown to rapidly achieve the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) therapeutic [...] Read more.
Background: The “fast track” addition (within 48 h) of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) to the optimized oral lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) during hospitalization for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) has been shown to rapidly achieve the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) therapeutic targets. However, so far, its efficacy in real-world settings remains understudied. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 128 ACS patients treated at our center, comparing “PCSK9i fast track” use within 48 h to standard “stepwise” LLT. Lipid levels and incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) were evaluated at 30 and 180 days. Results: The “PCSK9i fast track” group achieved significantly lower LDL-C levels at 30 days (41.5 ± 27.5 vs. 85.6 ± 35.9 mg/dL, p < 0.001) and 180 days (29.6 ± 21.0 vs. 59.0 ± 32.4 mg/dL, p < 0.001). Recommended LDL-C targets (<55 mg/dL) were met by 88.3% of the “PCSK9i fast track” group at 180 days, compared with 61.9% of controls (p < 0.001). No significant differences in MACEs were observed between groups. No adverse effects from PCSK9i use were noted. Conclusions: The “PCSK9i fast track” strategy was safe and effective in achieving LDL-C targets more rapidly than conventional approaches in real-world ACS patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Myocardial Infarction: Current Status and Future Challenges)
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24 pages, 9916 KiB  
Article
(−)-Oleuropein as a Novel Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Progression and Recurrence Suppressor via Targeting PCSK9-LDLR Axis
by Nehal A. Ahmed, Mohamed M. Mohyeldin, Hassan Y. Ebrahim, Oliver C. McGehee, Md Towhidul Islam Tarun and Khalid A. El Sayed
Nutrients 2025, 17(9), 1445; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091445 - 25 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 977
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Prostate cancer (PC) is among the most common malignancy in men. Several newly diagnosed patients have a locally advanced disease and distant metastasis at the initial diagnosis time. Castration-resistant PC (CRPC) patients have 100% recurrence incidence despite completing a therapeutic regimen, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Prostate cancer (PC) is among the most common malignancy in men. Several newly diagnosed patients have a locally advanced disease and distant metastasis at the initial diagnosis time. Castration-resistant PC (CRPC) patients have 100% recurrence incidence despite completing a therapeutic regimen, leading to high mortality. Androgen deprivation therapy and androgen inhibitors are initially effective, but resistance is inevitably developed. Epidemiological studies indicated that the Mediterranean diet, with high olive phenolic contents, is associated with a lower incidence of certain malignancies. This study aims at exploring the mCRPC progression and recurrence-suppressive and molecular effects of the major olive leaf phenolic glucoside (−)-oleuropein (OLE). Results: OLE downregulated the levels of proprotein convertase subtlisin/klexin type 9 (PCSK9) and normalized the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) in PC cells in vitro. Thus, a PCSK9-LDLR protein–protein interaction (PPI) in silico model was generated and used to assess OLE and its aglycone (OA) ability to bind at PCSK9 and thereby interfere with PCSK9-LDLR PPI. OLE perfectly filled the PCSK9 interface versus OA. Both OLE and OA showed virtual potential to interfere with PCSK9-LDLR PPI. OLE showed modest in vitro viability, migration, and clonogenicity suppressive effects on diverse human PC cell lines. OLE effectively suppressed mCRPC progression and recurrence in a nude mouse xenograft model. RNA-sequencing results proved the PCSK1, PCSK2, and PCSK9 downregulation in OLE-treated recurrent tumors versus vehicle control. Conclusions: Oleuropein is a novel lead useful for the control of mCRPC progression and the prevention of its recurrence via targeting PCSK9 expression and PPI with LDLR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Nutrition)
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