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Updated: Jun 10, 2025

A High-Throughput Luciferase Assay to Evaluate Proteolysis of the Single-Turnover Protease PCSK9
Published on: August 28, 2018
Role of PCSK9 inhibitors in venous thromboembolism: current evidence and unmet clinical needs
Marco Zuin1,2, Alberto Corsini3, Chiara Dalla Valle4
1Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, Ferrara 44121, Italy.
Abstract:
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) have recently emerged as promising therapeutic agents for lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. Moreover, preliminary evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggests that PCSK9i may also offer beneficial effects for patients following venous thromboembolism (VTE), with the most significant reductions in risk appearing over time, particularly beyond the first year of treatment. However, there is a lack of randomized controlled data supporting their efficacy and safety in conjunction with standard anticoagulation therapy. This article aims to critically evaluate the existing evidence for the use of PCSK9i as a complementary therapy for VTE risk reduction, while also identifying unmet clinical and research needs and proposing potential strategies to address these knowledge gaps.
Insights
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) show promise in reducing cardiovascular events and may benefit patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE). Further research is needed to confirm their efficacy and safety alongside anticoagulation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Hematology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) effectively lower LDL cholesterol.
- Emerging data suggest PCSK9i may reduce venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk, particularly with long-term use.
- Current evidence lacks robust randomized controlled data on PCSK9i efficacy and safety in VTE management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the existing evidence for PCSK9i in VTE risk reduction.
- To identify unmet clinical and research needs regarding PCSK9i as adjunctive VTE therapy.
- To propose strategies for addressing current knowledge gaps in PCSK9i use for VTE.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and critical appraisal of available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and preliminary evidence.
- Analysis of potential benefits and risks of PCSK9i in the context of standard anticoagulation.
- Identification of gaps in clinical data and research methodologies.
Main Results:
- Preliminary RCT data indicate potential long-term benefits of PCSK9i in reducing VTE risk.
- Significant risk reduction observed beyond the first year of PCSK9i treatment.
- Lack of comprehensive randomized data on combined efficacy and safety with anticoagulants.
Conclusions:
- PCSK9i represent a potential adjunctive therapy for VTE risk reduction, warranting further investigation.
- Randomized controlled trials are essential to establish definitive efficacy and safety profiles.
- Future research should focus on long-term outcomes and optimal integration with anticoagulation strategies.
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