Abstract
The identification and characterization of proprotein convertase subtilisin-like/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) have provided new insights into LDL metabolism and the causal role of LDL in coronary heart disease (CHD). PCSK9 is a secreted protease that mediates degradation of the LDL receptor by interacting with the extracellular domain and targeting the receptor for degradation. Individuals with loss-of-function mutations in PCSK9 have reduced plasma levels of LDL cholesterol and are protected from CHD; these observations have validated PCSK9 as a therapeutic target and suggested new approaches for the treatment and prevention of CHD.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | S172-S177 |
Journal | Journal of lipid research |
Volume | 50 |
Issue number | SUPPL. |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 2009 |
Keywords
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Low density lipoprotein
- Low density lipoprotein receptor
- Proprotein convertase subtilisin-like/ kexin type 9
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biochemistry
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology