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Updated: Jan 19, 2026

Isolation and Analysis of Plasma Lipoproteins by Ultracentrifugation
Published on: January 28, 2021
Role of PCSK9 in lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis
Xiao-Long Lin1, Le-Le Xiao2, Zhi-Han Tang3
1Department of Pathology, Hui Zhou Third People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Huizhou City, Guangdong Province, 516002, China.
Abstract:
Elevated plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Statins are the most widely used therapy for patients with hyperlipidemia. However, a significant residual cardiovascular risk remains in some patients even after maximally tolerated statin therapy. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a new pharmacologically therapeutic target for decreasing LDL-C. PCSK9 reduces LDL intake from circulation by enhancing LDLR degradation and preventing LDLR recirculation to the cell surface. Moreover, PCSK9 inhibitors have been approved for patients with either familial hypercholesterolemia or atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, who require additional reduction of LDL-C. In addition, PCSK9 inhibition combined with statins has been used as a new approach to help reduce LDL-C levels in patients with either statin intolerance or unattainable LDL goal. This review will discuss the emerging anti-PCSK9 therapies in the regulation of cholesterol metabolism and atherosclerosis.
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