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Updated: Jan 14, 2026
08:14
A High-Throughput Luciferase Assay to Evaluate Proteolysis of the Single-Turnover Protease PCSK9
Published on: August 28, 2018
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PCSK9 in critical illness - It's not all about lipids
Emma Crossley1, Jon Silversides1,2, Cecilia M O'Kane1,2
1Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.
Annals of Clinical Biochemistry
|October 27, 2025
Summary
Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin-Kexin type 9 (PCSK9) regulates cholesterol by affecting LDL receptors. Emerging research also suggests PCSK9 plays a role in inflammation and critical illnesses.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin-Kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is crucial for lipid metabolism.
- PCSK9 binds to the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), inhibiting LDL cholesterol (LDLc) clearance.
- PCSK9 is a therapeutic target for hypercholesterolemia, with monoclonal antibodies developed rapidly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the dual role of PCSK9 in lipid metabolism and inflammation.
- To investigate the potential of PCSK9 as a therapeutic target beyond hypercholesterolemia.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on PCSK9 function.
- Analysis of studies investigating PCSK9 in critical illnesses.
Main Results:
- PCSK9's established role in reducing LDLc clearance via LDLR.
- Elevated PCSK9 levels observed in critical conditions like sepsis and ARDS.
- Hypothesized role of PCSK9 in impairing bacterial endotoxin clearance and exacerbating inflammation.
Conclusions:
- PCSK9 is a key regulator of both lipid metabolism and inflammatory processes.
- Further research is needed to elucidate PCSK9's function in extra-hepatic tissues.
- Pharmacological inhibition of PCSK9 may offer broader therapeutic benefits.
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