Evolocumab, a PCSK9 inhibitor, protects human endothelial cells against H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress

Abstract

Context

Recent surveys have shown an association between proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and oxidative stress.

Objective

In this investigation, the effect of evolocumab an anti-PCSK9 antibody was assessed against oxidative damage caused by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC).

Material and methods

Viability of HUVEC was measured by MTT assay. Hydroperoxides and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were detected in HUVEC that pre-treated with evolocumab and, then exposed to H₂O₂.

Results

Evolocumab significantly prevented the cytotoxicity induced by H₂O₂ at the concentrations of 5–100 µg/ml. Pre-treatment of HUVEC with evolocumab reduced hydroperoxides and MDA levels and also increased FRAP value in intra- and extra-cellular mediums compared with H₂O₂ stimulated cells at different concentration ranges.

Conclusion

This study displayed anti-oxidative and cytoprotective activities of evolocumab against oxidative damage caused by H₂O₂ in endothelial cells.

Keywords:

• Antioxidants
• cell viability
• evolocumab
• HUVEC
• oxidative stress

Disclosure statement

The authors declared no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by Vice-Chancellery for Research and Technology of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences under grant number 397684.