Targeting PCSK9 and Beyond for the Management of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol

Reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels is crucial to the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). However, many patients, especially those at very high ASCVD risk or with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), do not achieve target LDL-C levels with statin monotherapy. The underutilization of novel lipid-lowering therapies (LLT) globally may be due to cost concerns or therapeutic inertia. Emerging approaches have the potential to lower LDL-C and reduce ASCVD risk further, in addition to offering alternatives for statin-intolerant patients. Shifting the treatment paradigm towards initial combination therapy and utilizing novel LLT strategies can complement existing treatments. This review discusses innovative approaches including combination therapies involving statins and agents like ezetimibe, bempedoic acid, cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitors as well as strategies targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3) inhibition. Advances in nucleic acid-based therapies and gene editing are innovative approaches that will improve patient compliance and adherence. These strategies demonstrate significant LDL-C reductions and improved cardiovascular outcomes, offering potential for optimal LDL-C control and reduced ASCVD risk. By addressing the limitations of statin monotherapy, these approaches provide new management options for elevated LDL-C levels.

Automated summary

Reducing LDL-C levels is crucial for preventing ASCVD, but many patients, especially those at high risk or with FH, don't achieve target levels with statin alone. The underutilization of novel LLT may be due to cost concerns or therapeutic inertia. Emerging approaches, including combination therapies and novel LLT strategies, offer potential for further LDL-C reduction and reduced ASCVD risk.