Stairs instead of elevators at the workplace decreases PCSK9 levels in a healthy population

Backgound Regular physical activity is recommended to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in a healthy population. Inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) was shown to reduce (LDL-C) levels; however, the impact of physical exercise on PCSK9 levels remains unclear. Materials and methods We used data from 67 healthy hospital employees who participated in a 6- month intervention promoting active use of stairs instead of elevators during 3 months, followed by 3 months without recommendation. We confirmed the degree of physical activity with estimated aerobic capacity (VO2 (max)) and measured serum PCSK9 levels at baseline, 3 and 6 month. Using a multilevel regression model, we analysed changes of PCSK9 levels over time adjusting for age, gender, aerobic capacity, baseline LDL-C, and LDL-C and body mass index (BMI) changes. Results At baseline, PCSK9 levels were associated with higher aerobic capacity (P-value = 0.024). At 3 months, we observed a significant decrease in mean PCSK9 levels from 403.6 to 324.3 ng/mL (Pvalue = 0.001), as well a significant decrease in mean LDL-C levels from 3.5 to 3.3 mM(P-value = 0.01). During this period, mean aerobic capacity (VO2 (max)) increased from 37.0 to 40.4 mL/kg/min (P-value < 0.001). Physical activity was independently associated with a decrease in PCSK9 levels after adjustment for age, gender, baseline aerobic capacity, and LDL-C and BMI changes. Conclusion Daily physical activity at the work place is independently associated with a decrease in PCSK9 levels over time.