Does 24-h Activity Cycle Influence Plasma PCSK9 Concentration? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Disease Research
• Exercise Physiology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Elevated plasma proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is linked to increased atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk.
• Previous studies on the relationship between 24-hour activity cycles (24-HAC) and PCSK9 have yielded conflicting results.
• Understanding this relationship is crucial for developing effective ASCVD prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize existing research on the association between 24-HAC and plasma PCSK9 concentrations in both animal and human subjects.
• To clarify the impact of physical activity interventions on PCSK9 levels.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases.
• Network meta-analysis was employed for descriptive data summarization.
• Pairwise meta-analysis was used to estimate the effect size of interventions on PCSK9.

Main Results:

• Interventions aimed at increasing moderate to vigorous physical activities (MVPA) did not significantly change plasma PCSK9.
• However, physical activity interventions combined with statin therapy showed a significant increase in PCSK9.
• Supervised exercise training demonstrated a significant increase in PCSK9, whereas physical activity counseling did not.

Conclusions:

• The impact of MVPA on plasma PCSK9 may be influenced by concurrent statin therapy, the method of intervention delivery, and potentially other unmeasured factors.
• Caution is advised when utilizing plasma PCSK9 as a primary outcome measure for physical activity interventions targeting ASCVD risk reduction.