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Updated: Feb 14, 2026
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Differential Effects of Lipid-lowering Drugs in Modulating Morphology of Cholesterol Particles
Published on: November 10, 2017
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Lipoprotein(a)-lowering therapies: a promising future.
Jingwen Zhang1, Ann Marie Navar2, Lale Tokgozoglu3
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
European Heart Journal
|February 13, 2026
Summary
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] significantly increases atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk. Emerging therapies show promise for lowering Lp(a) and reducing cardiovascular risk, with Phase III trials ongoing.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a major genetically determined risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).
- Elevated Lp(a) contributes significantly to residual cardiovascular risk, impacting a substantial population.
- Current treatments and lifestyle changes minimally affect Lp(a) levels; lipoprotein apheresis is effective but impractical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the limited efficacy of current therapies on Lp(a) levels.
- To provide an update on novel Lp(a)-targeted therapies in development.
- To discuss ongoing Phase III trials and potential benefits of Lp(a) reduction.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on lipid-lowering therapies and Lp(a).
- Analysis of emerging Lp(a)-targeted therapeutics, including nucleic acid-based approaches and small molecule inhibitors.
- Examination of data from Phase II trials and ongoing Phase III outcome trials.
Main Results:
- Emerging Lp(a)-targeted therapies, including antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNAs, and a small molecule inhibitor, demonstrated significant Lp(a) reduction in Phase II trials.
- These novel therapies show potential for substantial and durable Lp(a)-lowering effects.
- Phase III trials are currently evaluating the impact of these agents on ASCVD outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Novel Lp(a)-lowering therapies represent a promising advancement in managing cardiovascular risk.
- Successful outcomes from Phase III trials could transform ASCVD risk reduction strategies for patients with elevated Lp(a).
- Potential benefits may extend to slowing the progression of calcific aortic valve stenosis.
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