The 2003 discovery of a new protein called PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9), involved in LDL particle metabolism, resulted in the development of a new class of highly potent cholesterol-lowering agents. Given this context, several monthly or bimonthly subcutaneously administered monoclonal antibodies that inhibit PCSK9 (evolocumab, Amgen; alirocumab, Sanofi/Regeneron; bococizumab, Pfizer) were shown to reduce LDL cholesterol by 45-75%, with a very good tolerance and safety profile. This paved the way for a new therapeutic strategy aimed at helping patients achieve their LDL-cholesterol targets while compensating the statins' limitations of use.
Keywords
Familial hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular diseases, cardiovascular prevention, lipoproteins, LDL cholesterol, genetics, atherosclerosis, PCSK9, monoclonal antibodies