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Updated: Jul 19, 2025

A High-Throughput Luciferase Assay to Evaluate Proteolysis of the Single-Turnover Protease PCSK9
Published on: August 28, 2018
PCSK9 and the nervous system: a no-brainer?
Ali K Jaafar1, Romuald Techer1, Kévin Chemello1
1Laboratoire Inserm UMR 1188 DéTROI, Saint-Pierre, La Réunion, France.
Abstract:
In the past 20 years, PCSK9 has been shown to play a pivotal role in LDL cholesterol metabolism and cardiovascular health by inducing the lysosomal degradation of the LDL receptor. PCSK9 was discovered by the cloning of genes up-regulated after apoptosis induced by serum deprivation in primary cerebellar neurons, but despite its initial identification in the brain, the precise role of PCSK9 in the nervous system remains to be clearly established. The present article is a comprehensive review of studies published or in print before July 2023 that have investigated the expression pattern of PCSK9, its effects on lipid metabolism as well as its putative roles specifically in the central and peripheral nervous systems, with a special focus on cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
Insights
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) impacts LDL cholesterol and cardiovascular health. This review explores PCSK9
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Science
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is crucial for LDL receptor degradation and cholesterol metabolism.
- PCSK9 was initially identified in the brain, but its nervous system functions are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review PCSK9's expression, lipid metabolism effects, and roles in the central and peripheral nervous systems.
- To focus on PCSK9's involvement in cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of studies published up to July 2023.
- Analysis of research on PCSK9 expression patterns and functional roles.
- Synthesis of findings related to neurological and cardiovascular implications.
Main Results:
- PCSK9 influences LDL receptor levels and lipid profiles.
- Evidence suggests PCSK9 has roles in both central and peripheral nervous systems.
- Emerging data links PCSK9 to neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular conditions.
Conclusions:
- PCSK9 is a significant factor in both lipid metabolism and neurological health.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate PCSK9's functions in the nervous system and its therapeutic potential for related diseases.
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