Are anti-inflammatory agents and nutraceuticals - novel inhibitors of PCSK9?

Abstract

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a protease which increases the lysosomal degradation of low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) resulting in elevated serum LDL-cholesterol levels. Elevated LDL-cholesterol is the main risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Antibodies to PCSK9 decrease LDL-cholesterol. Recent studies have suggested a direct relationship between PCSK9 and inflammation and the potential inhibitory effects of anti-inflammatory agents against this enzyme. Nutraceuticals are natural compounds, which have numerous anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects. In this review we focus on anti-inflammatory substances and nutraceuticals, which are beneficial in treatment of dyslipidemia. We also reviewed the recent findings concerning the role of PCSK9 as the main target for molecular mechanisms of these substances.

Keywords:

• Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9
• cardiovascular disease
• nutraceuticals
• inflammatory markers
• LDL-cholesterol

Author contributions

ZA and JH contributed in conception, design and drafting of the manuscript. RS, ZR, and LM contributed in data collection and manuscript drafting. All authors approved the final version for submission. ZA and JH oversaw the study.

Disclosure statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.