Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 26, 2026

A High-Throughput Luciferase Assay to Evaluate Proteolysis of the Single-Turnover Protease PCSK9
Published on: August 28, 2018
[PCSK-9 inhibitors, effects on LDL-C and future implications: What you should know]
1Especialista en Medicina Interna, lipidólogo clínico, Facultad Medicina, Universidad FASTA, Departamento Farmacología, Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The discovery of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) led to new lipid-lowering therapies. Monoclonal antibodies targeting PCSK9 significantly reduce LDL cholesterol, with ongoing research into long-term efficacy and safety.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Familial hypercholesterolemia (HF) research identified proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) in 2003.
- PCSK9 plays a crucial role in cholesterol metabolism and LDL receptor regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical discovery of PCSK9.
- To examine the physiology and pathophysiology of PCSK9.
- To discuss the development and clinical application of PCSK9 inhibitors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of PCSK9 discovery and development.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for PCSK9 inhibitors.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on PCSK9's role in lipid disorders.
Main Results:
- PCSK9 discovery spurred the development of novel pharmacological strategies.
- Monoclonal antibodies targeting PCSK9, approved 12 years post-discovery, effectively lower LDL-C and other lipid subfractions.
- Significant progress has been made in understanding PCSK9's impact on cardiovascular health.
Conclusions:
- PCSK9 inhibition represents a major advancement in managing hypercholesterolemia.
- Further investigation is needed to fully elucidate the long-term efficacy and safety profile of PCSK9 inhibitors.
- Understanding PCSK9's complex role continues to evolve, offering new therapeutic avenues.
Related Concept Videos
Lipid-Lowering Drugs: Statins and Miscellaneous Agents
Pharmacogenomics: Identification of New Drug Targets
Atherosclerosis III: Management
Coronary Artery Disease IV: Preventive Measures
Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction
Pharmacokinetics: Drug–Drug Interactions

