The role of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 in atherosclerosis development

Elevated plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Statins are the most widely used therapy for patients with hyperlipidemia. However, a significant residual cardiovascular risk remains in some patients even after maximally tolerated statin therapy. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a new promising therapeutic target for decreasing LDL-C. PCSK9 reduces LDL intake from circulation by enhancing low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR) degradation and preventing LDLR recirculation to the cell surface. In addition to examining the functional role of PCSK9, this review also discusses new drugs for the treatment of hyperlipidemia - PCSK9 inhibitors.