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Rangwala HS, Fatima H, Ali M, Shafiq MA, Rangwala BS, Virwani V, Kumar A, Arsal SA, Raja A, Raja S, Mustafa MS. Evaluating the Effectiveness and Safety of Evinacumab in Treating Hypercholesterolemia and Hypertriglyceridemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Am J Cardiovasc Drugs 2024:10.1007/s40256-024-00649-1. [PMID: 38713309 DOI: 10.1007/s40256-024-00649-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease remains a significant global health concern, with high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels contributing to an increased risk. Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) further complicates its management, necessitating additional lipid-lowering therapies. Evinacumab, an angiopoietin-like protein 3 monoclonal antibody, has emerged as a potential treatment, particularly for patients with FH, by effectively reducing LDL-C and triglyceride levels. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of evinacumab across diverse patient populations. METHODS Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria, relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were systematically retrieved from multiple databases until November 24, 2023. The inclusion criteria were studies comparing evinacumab (at doses of 5 and 15 mg) to placebo, with outcomes focusing on lipid levels and adverse events. Standardized protocols were employed for data extraction and quality assessment, and statistical analysis was conducted using RevMan software. RESULTS Four RCTs, involving 270 patients, were included in the analysis. The analysis revealed significant reductions in lipid markers, particularly with the 15-mg dose of evinacumab, including triacylglycerols (standard mean difference [SMD] = -6.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] - 14.53 to 2.36, P = 0.16), total cholesterol (SMD = - 6.20, 95% CI - 11.53 to - 0.88, P = 0.02), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (SMD = - 0.79, 95% CI - 1.27 to - 0.31, P = 0.001), LDL-C (SMD = - 4.58, 95% CI - 9.13 to - 0.03, P = 0.05), apolipoprotein (Apo) B (SMD = - 4.01, 95% CI - 7.53 to - 0.46, P = 0.03), and Apo C3 (SMD = - 7.67, 95% CI - 12.94 to - 2.41, P = 0.004). Adverse event analysis revealed no significant association, indicating good tolerability. CONCLUSION High-dose evinacumab (15 mg) consistently demonstrated efficacy in reducing cholesterol and other lipid markers, with favorable tolerability. Further research is warranted to comprehensively assess its safety and clinical effectiveness, emphasizing the need for additional data to support its use in managing cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussain Sohail Rangwala
- Department of Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Iqbal Shaheed Rd, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - Hareer Fatima
- Department of Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Iqbal Shaheed Rd, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Mirha Ali
- Department of Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Iqbal Shaheed Rd, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ashir Shafiq
- Department of Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Iqbal Shaheed Rd, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Vikash Virwani
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Aashish Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical College Lyari, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syed Ali Arsal
- Department of Medicine, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical College Lyari, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Adarsh Raja
- Department of Medicine, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical College Lyari, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sandesh Raja
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
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White RT, Sankey KH, Nawarskas JJ. Evinacumab-dgnb (Evkeeza-REGN1500), A Novel Lipid-Lowering Therapy for Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia. Cardiol Rev 2024; 32:180-185. [PMID: 37071085 DOI: 10.1097/crd.0000000000000522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Chronically elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) has harmful effects on the vasculature including increased vasoconstriction and the formation of plaques which may rupture, causing coronary heart disease and stroke. In patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, adequate reduction of LDL is especially challenging. Although HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) are the mainstays for LDL lowering, other treatments such as proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors, bempedoic acid, incliseran, lomitapide, and apheresis have been employed in an effort to achieve adequate LDL reduction in these patients. Despite these available therapies, many patients with familial hypercholesterolemia do not meet the LDL targets suggested in current guidelines. Evinacumab is a novel lipid-lowering therapy that exerts its LDL-lowering effect through inhibition of angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3). ANGPTL3 inhibits the breakdown of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, such as very low-density lipoprotein and chylomicrons. By inhibiting ANGPTL3, evinacumab allows these lipoproteins to be degraded, ultimately leading to reductions in LDL, high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides. Clinical trials have demonstrated evinacumab to be safe and effective in reducing LDL. However, data are lacking regarding its potential to reduce risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Evinacumab is generally well tolerated with the primary adverse effects comprising infusion reactions, nasopharyngitis, influenza-like illness, dizziness, rhinorrhea, and nausea. While evinacumab is an interesting therapy, until it is proven to reduce cardiovascular events, its high cost leaves its anticipated role in therapy somewhat ambiguous. In the meantime, it may be a useful therapy for those with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raechel T White
- From the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM
| | | | - James J Nawarskas
- From the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM
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Sawhney JPS, Madan K. Familial hypercholesterolemia. Indian Heart J 2024; 76 Suppl 1:S108-S112. [PMID: 38599725 PMCID: PMC11019323 DOI: 10.1016/j.ihj.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia is a common genetic disorder of autosomal inheritance associated with elevated LDL-cholesterol. It is estimated to affect 1:250 individuals in general population roughly estimated to be 5 million in India. The prevalence of FH is higher in young CAD patients (<55 years in men; <60 years in women). FH is underdiagnosed and undertreated. Screening during childhood and Cascade screening of family members of known FH patients is of utmost importance in order to prevent the burden of CAD. Early identification of FH patients and early initiation of the lifelong lipid lowering therapy is the most effective strategy for managing FH. FH management includes pharmaceutical agents (statins and non statin drugs) and lifestyle modification. Inspite of maximum dose of statin with or without Ezetimibe, if target levels of LDL-C are not achieved, Bempedoic acid, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) Inhibitors/Inclisiran can be added.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P S Sawhney
- Dharma Vira Heart Center, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi 110060, India.
| | - Kushal Madan
- Dharma Vira Heart Center, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi 110060, India.
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Tomlinson B, Wu QY, Zhong YM, Li YH. Advances in Dyslipidaemia Treatments: Focusing on ApoC3 and ANGPTL3 Inhibitors. J Lipid Atheroscler 2024; 13:2-20. [PMID: 38299167 PMCID: PMC10825570 DOI: 10.12997/jla.2024.13.1.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Apolipoprotein C3 (apoC3) and angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3) inhibit lipolysis by lipoprotein lipase and may influence the secretion and uptake of various lipoproteins. Genetic studies show that depletion of these proteins is associated with improved lipid profiles and reduced cardiovascular events so it was anticipated that drugs which mimic the effects of loss-of-function mutations would be useful lipid treatments. ANGPTL3 inhibitors were initially developed as a treatment for severe hypertriglyceridaemia including familial chylomicronaemia syndrome (FCS), which is usually not adequately controlled with currently available drugs. However, it was found ANGPTL3 inhibitors were also effective in reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and they were studied in patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH). Evinacumab targets ANGPTL3 and reduced LDL-C by about 50% in patients with homozygous FH and it has been approved for that indication. The antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) vupanorsen targeting ANGPTL3 was less effective in reducing LDL-C in patients with moderate hypertriglyceridaemia and its development has been discontinued but the small interfering RNA (siRNA) ARO-ANG3 is being investigated in Phase 2 studies. ApoC3 can be inhibited by the ASO volanesorsen, which reduced triglycerides by >70% in patients with FCS and it was approved for FCS in Europe but not in the United States because of concerns about thrombocytopaenia. Olezarsen is an N-acetylgalactosamine-conjugated ASO targeting apoC3 which appears as effective as volanesorsen without the risk of thrombocytopaenia and is undergoing Phase 3 trials. ARO-APOC3 is an siRNA targeting apoC3 that is currently being investigated in Phase 3 studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Tomlinson
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
| | - Qian-yan Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-ming Zhong
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-hong Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
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Gill PK, Hegele RA. New Biological Therapies for Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol. Can J Cardiol 2023; 39:1913-1930. [PMID: 37562541 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Depressed low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration protects against atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Natural hypocholesterolemia states can have a monogenic etiology, caused by pathogenic loss of function variants in the PCSK9, ANGPTL3, MTTP, or APOB genes. In this focused review, we discuss development and clinical use of several new therapeutics that inhibit these gene products to target elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. In particular, inhibitors of proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) have notably affected clinical practice, followed recently by inhibition of angiopoietin-like 3 (ANGPTL3). Currently used in the clinic are alirocumab and evolocumab, two anti-PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies, inclisiran, a small interfering RNA that prevents PCSK9 translation, evinacumab, an anti-ANGPTL3 monoclonal antibody, and lomitapide, a small-molecule inhibitor of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein. Additional therapies are in preclinical or clinical trial stages of development. These consist of other monoclonal antibodies, antisense oligonucleotides, small-molecule inhibitors, mimetic peptides, adnectins, vaccines, and gene-editing therapies. Vaccines and gene-editing therapies in particular hold great potential to confer active long-term attenuation or provide single-treatment life-long knock-down of PCSK9 or ANGPTL3 activity. Biologic therapies inspired by monogenic hypocholesterolemia states are becoming valuable tools to help protect against atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praneet K Gill
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert A Hegele
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
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Doi T, Langsted A, Nordestgaard BG. Lipoproteins, Cholesterol, and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in East Asians and Europeans. J Atheroscler Thromb 2023; 30:1525-1546. [PMID: 37704428 PMCID: PMC10627775 DOI: 10.5551/jat.rv22013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
One fifth of the world population live in East Asia comprising Japan, Korea, and China where ischemic heart disease, a major component of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), is the second most frequent cause of death. Each of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), remnant lipoproteins, and lipoprotein(a), summarized as non-high-density lipoproteins (non-HDL) or apolipoprotein B (apoB) containing lipoproteins, causes ASCVD. However, a significant proportion of the evidence on lipoproteins and lipoprotein cholesterol with risk of ASCVD came from White people mainly living in Europe and North America and not from people living in East Asia or of East Asian descent. With a unique biological, geohistorical, and social background in this world region, East Asians have distinctive characteristics that might have potential impact on the association of lipoproteins and lipoprotein cholesterol with risk of ASCVD. Considering the movement across national borders in the World, understanding of lipoprotein and lipoprotein cholesterol evidence on ASCVD in East Asia is important for both East Asian and non-East Asian populations wherever they live in the World.In this review, we introduce the biological features of lipoproteins and lipoprotein cholesterol and the evidence for their association with risk of ASCVD in East Asian and European populations. We also provide an overview of guideline recommendations for prevention of ASCVD in these two different world regions. Finally, specific preventive strategies and future perspectives are touched upon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahito Doi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital . Herlev Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- The Copenhagen General Population Study, Copenhagen University Hospital . Herlev Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Langsted
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital . Herlev Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Børge G. Nordestgaard
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital . Herlev Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- The Copenhagen General Population Study, Copenhagen University Hospital . Herlev Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Abstract
ANGPTL3 has emerged as a therapeutic target whose inhibition results in profound reductions of plasma lipids, including atherogenic triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The identification of ANGPTL3 deficiency as a cause of familial combined hypolipidemia in humans hastened the development of anti-ANGPTL3 therapeutic agents, including evinacumab (a monoclonal antibody inhibiting circulating ANGPTL3), vupanorsen (an antisense oligonucleotide [ASO] targeting hepatic ANGPTL3 mRNA for degradation), and others. Advances have also been made in ANGPTL3 vaccination and gene editing strategies, with the former still in preclinical phases and the latter in preparation for Phase 1 trials. Here, we review the discovery of ANGPTL3 as an important regulator of lipoprotein metabolism, molecular characteristics of the protein, mechanisms by which it regulates plasma lipids, and the clinical development of anti-ANGPTL3 agents. The clinical success of therapies inhibiting ANGPTL3 highlights the importance of this target as a novel approach in treating refractory hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendall H Burks
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Debapriya Basu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ira J Goldberg
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nathan O Stitziel
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA; Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA; McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
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Sosnowska B, Adach W, Surma S, Rosenson RS, Banach M. Evinacumab, an ANGPTL3 Inhibitor, in the Treatment of Dyslipidemia. J Clin Med 2022; 12. [PMID: 36614969 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12010168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited disorder. The level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in patients with homozygous FH can be twice as high as that in patients with heterozygous FH. The inhibition of ANGPTL3 shows an important therapeutic approach in reducing LDL-C and triglycerides (TG) levels and, thus, is a potentially effective strategy in the treatment of FH. Evinacumab is a monoclonal antibody inhibiting circulating ANGPTL3, available under the trade name Evkeeza® for the treatment of homozygous FH. It was reported that evinacumab is effective and safe in patients with homozygous and heterozygous FH, as well as resistant hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia. This paper summarizes existing knowledge on the role of ANGPTL3, 4, and 8 proteins in lipoprotein metabolism, the findings from clinical trials with evinacumab, a fully human ANGPTL3 mAb, and the place for this new agent in lipid-lowering therapy.
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Krzemińska J, Młynarska E, Radzioch E, Wronka M, Rysz J, Franczyk B. Management of Familial Hypercholesterolemia with Special Emphasis on Evinacumab. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123273. [PMID: 36552028 PMCID: PMC9775211 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an underdiagnosed disease that contributes to a significant number of cardiovascular incidents through high serum Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) values. Its treatment primarily requires healthy lifestyle and therapy based on statins, ezetimibe and Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9); however, there are also new treatment options that can be used in patients who do not respond to therapy, among which we highlight evinacumab. Elevated LDL-C values, together with clinical manifestations associated with cholesterol deposition (e.g., tendon xanthomas, xanthelasma and arcus cornealis) and family history are the main elements in the diagnosis of FH. Pathognomonic signs of FH include extensor tendon xanthomas; however, their absence does not exclude the diagnosis. Elevated LDL-C levels lead to premature Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD), which is why early diagnosis and treatment of FH is essential. Evinacumab, a novelty in pharmacological practice, having a complex mechanism of action, causes desirable changes in lipid parameters in patients with homozygous form of familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH). This review collects and summarizes the most important aspects of the new drug, especially being a discovery in the treatment of HoFH, giving these patients hope for a longer and more comfortable life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Krzemińska
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewelina Młynarska
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-(042)-639-37-50
| | - Ewa Radzioch
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Magdalena Wronka
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Jacek Rysz
- Department of Nephrology, Hypertension and Family Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Beata Franczyk
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
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Quispe R, Sweeney T, Varma B, Agarwala A, Michos ED. Recent Updates in Hypertriglyceridemia Management for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2022. [PMID: 35895246 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-022-01052-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Mounting evidence continues to support the causal role of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRL) in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Substantial residual ASCVD risk remains among high-risk patients who have elevated triglycerides despite reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) with statin therapy. Ongoing research efforts have focused on evaluating triglyceride-lowering therapies among patients with hypertriglyceridemia. RECENT FINDINGS The REDUCE-IT trial showed that the addition of icosapent ethyl, a highly purified form of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), can reduce vascular events among statin-treated individuals with elevated triglycerides who have either clinical ASCVD or diabetes plus another risk factor. Although additional evidence for EPA has emerged from other trials, conflicting results have been reported by subsequent trials that tested different omega-3 fatty acid formulations. Randomized clinical trials have not demonstrated incremental ASCVD benefit of fibrates on background of statin therapy, but fibrates are used to help prevent pancreatitis in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia. Selective inhibitors of apolipoprotein C-III (apoC3) and angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3), proteins that are involved in metabolism of TRLs by regulating lipoprotein lipase, have been tested in selected patient populations and showed significant reduction in triglyceride and LDL-C levels. Statin therapy continues to be the cornerstone of pharmacologic reduction of cardiovascular risk. High-dose EPA in the form of icosapent ethyl has been demonstrated to have cardiovascular benefit on top of statins in persons with elevated triglycerides at high ASCVD risk. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating novel selective therapies such as apoC3 and ANGPTL3 inhibitors.
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Kosmas CE, Bousvarou MD, Sourlas A, Papakonstantinou EJ, Peña Genao E, Echavarria Uceta R, Guzman E. Angiopoietin-Like Protein 3 (ANGPTL3) Inhibitors in the Management of Refractory Hypercholesterolemia. Clin Pharmacol 2022; 14:49-59. [PMID: 35873366 PMCID: PMC9300746 DOI: 10.2147/cpaa.s345072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common cause of death in a global scale and significantly depends on the elevated plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and the subsequent formation of atherosclerotic plaques. While physicians have several LDL-C-lowering agents with diverse mechanisms of action, including statins, ezetimibe, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors and inclisiran, angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3) inhibitors have recently emerged as a powerful addition in the armamentarium of lipid-lowering strategies, especially for patients with refractory hypercholesterolemia, as in the case of patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH). ANGPTL3 protein is a glycoprotein secreted by liver cells that is implicated in the metabolism of lipids along with other ANGPTL proteins. These proteins inhibit lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and endothelial lipase (EL) in tissues. Loss-of-function mutations affecting the gene encoding ANGPTL3 are linked with lower total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglyceride (TG) levels. Evinacumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets, binds to, and pharmacologically inhibits ANGPTL3, which was recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a complementary agent to other LDL-C lowering regimens for patients aged 12 or older with HoFH, based on clinical trial evidence that confirmed its safety and efficacy in those patients. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) also represent an interesting class of agents that target and inhibit the mRNA derived from the transcription of ANGPTL3 gene. This review aims to present and discuss the current clinical and scientific data pertaining to the role of ANGPTL3 inhibitors, a novel lipid-modifying class of agents capable of reducing LDL-C levels via a mechanism independent of LDL receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantine E Kosmas
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
- Cardiology Clinic, Cardiology Unlimited, PC, New York, NY, USA
- Correspondence: Constantine E Kosmas, Email
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Eliscer Guzman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
- Cardiology Clinic, Cardiology Unlimited, PC, New York, NY, USA
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Khoury E, Croteau L, Lauzière A, Gaudet D. Lessons learned from the evinacumab trials in the treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. Future Cardiol 2022; 18:507-518. [PMID: 35469449 DOI: 10.2217/fca-2021-0149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) is a life-threatening disease characterized by extremely elevated LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) levels which result in premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. As conventional lipid-lowering therapies, which mainly depend on LDL receptors for LDL particle clearance, remain insufficient for reaching the recommended LDL-C levels in HoFH, agents acting independently of LDL receptors, such as ANGPTL3 inhibitors, constitute a promising target. Evinacumab, a monoclonal antibody directed against ANGPTL3, was approved in the USA in 2021 for treating patients with HoFH. Evinacumab has shown an adequate safety profile with strong LDL-lowering efficacy. This review highlights the development path of evinacumab and provides insight on the lessons learned from trials as well as the hurdles facing accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etienne Khoury
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Lipidology & Rare Lipid Disorders Unit, Community Genomic Medicine Center, Université de Montréal & ECOGENE-21 Clinical & Translational Research Center, Chicoutimi, Québec, Canada
| | - Laurent Croteau
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Lipidology & Rare Lipid Disorders Unit, Community Genomic Medicine Center, Université de Montréal & ECOGENE-21 Clinical & Translational Research Center, Chicoutimi, Québec, Canada
| | - Alex Lauzière
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Lipidology & Rare Lipid Disorders Unit, Community Genomic Medicine Center, Université de Montréal & ECOGENE-21 Clinical & Translational Research Center, Chicoutimi, Québec, Canada.,Lipid Clinic, Chicoutimi Hospital
| | - Daniel Gaudet
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Lipidology & Rare Lipid Disorders Unit, Community Genomic Medicine Center, Université de Montréal & ECOGENE-21 Clinical & Translational Research Center, Chicoutimi, Québec, Canada.,Lipid Clinic, Chicoutimi Hospital
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Vekic J, Zeljkovic A, Stefanovic A, Bogavac-stanojevic N, Ilias I, Silva-nunes J, Stoian AP, Janez A, Rizzo M. Novel Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical-Based Approaches for Cardiovascular Diseases Prevention Targeting Atherogenic Small Dense LDL. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:825. [PMID: 35456658 PMCID: PMC9027611 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14040825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Compelling evidence supports the causative link between increased levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) development. For that reason, the principal aim of primary and secondary cardiovascular prevention is to reach and sustain recommended LDL-C goals. Although there is a considerable body of evidence that shows that lowering LDL-C levels is directly associated with CVD risk reduction, recent data shows that the majority of patients across Europe cannot achieve their LDL-C targets. In attempting to address this matter, a new overarching concept of a lipid-lowering approach, comprising of even more intensive, much earlier and longer intervention to reduce LDL-C level, was recently proposed for high-risk patients. Another important concern is the residual risk for recurrent cardiovascular events despite optimal LDL-C reduction, suggesting that novel lipid biomarkers should also be considered as potential therapeutic targets. Among them, small dense LDL particles (sdLDL) seem to have the most significant potential for therapeutic modulation. This paper discusses the potential of traditional and emerging lipid-lowering approaches for cardiovascular prevention by targeting sdLDL particles.
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Gao Y, Zhang B, Yang J. Evinacumab for the treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2022; 15:139-145. [PMID: 35220876 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2022.2047934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Gao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Baoqi Zhang
- Department of Surgery, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Junyi Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi, Shandong, China
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15
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Bellosta S, Rossi C, Alieva AS, Catapano AL, Corsini A, Baragetti A. Cholesterol Lowering Biotechnological Strategies: From Monoclonal Antibodies to Antisense Therapies. A Pre-Clinical Perspective Review. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2022. [PMID: 35022949 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-021-07293-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the increase in available genetic information and a better understanding of the genetic bases of dyslipidemias has led to the identification of potential new avenues for therapies. Additionally, the development of new technologies has presented the key for developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting not only proteins (e.g., the monoclonal antibodies and vaccines) but also the transcripts (from antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to small interfering RNAs) or the genomic sequence (gene therapies). These pharmacological advances have led to successful therapeutic improvements, particularly in the cardiovascular arena because we are now able to treat rare, genetically driven, and previously untreatable conditions (e.g, familial hypertriglyceridemia or hyperchylomicronemia). In this review, the pre-clinical pharmacological development of the major biotechnological cholesterol lowering advances were discussed, describing facts, gaps, potential future steps forward, and therapeutic opportunities.
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Surma S, Romańczyk M, Filipiak KJ. Evinacumab - The new kid on the block. Is it important for cardiovascular prevention? Int J Cardiol Cardiovasc Risk Prev 2021; 11:200107. [PMID: 34988554 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcrp.2021.200107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Chen Y, Huang M, Xuan Y, Li K, Xu X, Wang L, Sun Y, Xiao L, Xu P, Kong W, Wang DW. Association between Lipid Levels and Risk for Different Types of Aneurysms: A Mendelian Randomization Study. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11111171. [PMID: 34834523 PMCID: PMC8621501 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11111171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the associations between serum lipid levels and aneurysms have been investigated in epidemiological studies, causality remains unknown. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the causal relationships of serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG) levels on five types of aneurysms, using genetic variants associated with four lipid traits as instrumental variables in a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. METHODS We performed two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to evaluate the associations of HDL-C, LDL-C, TC, and TG levels with risks for five types of aneurysms and those of LDL-C- (HMGCR, NPC1L1, PCSK9, CETP, and LDLR) and TG-lowering targets (ANGPTL3 and LPL) with aneurysms. RESULTS The sample sizes of the included studies ranged from nearly 80,000 to 410,000. We found inverse associations between genetically predicted HDL-C levels and aortic (OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.65-0.85) and abdominal aortic aneurysms (0.58, 0.45-0.75). A 1-SD increase in LDL-C and TC levels was associated with increased risks for aortic (1.41, 1.26-1.58 and 1.36, 1.18-1.56, respectively) and abdominal aortic aneurysms (1.82, 1.48-2.22 and 1.55, 1.25-1.93, respectively). TG levels were significantly associated with aortic (1.36, 1.18-1.56) and lower extremity artery aneurysms (2.76, 1.48-5.14), but limited to cerebral aneurysm (1.23, 1.06-1.42). Secondary analyses revealed a relationship between genetically proxied LDL-C-lowering targets and all types of aneurysms; however, the drug targets remained heterogeneous. We found a weak association between TG-lowering therapies and aortic (ANGPTL3, 0.51, 0.29-0.89) and abdominal aortic aneurysms (LPL, 0.64, 0.44-0.94). CONCLUSION According to genetic evidence, lipid dysfunction is a causal risk factor for aneurysms. Lipid-lowering drugs may be a potential effective strategy in preventing and managing aneurysms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanghui Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Y.C.); (M.H.); (Y.X.); (K.L.); (X.X.); (L.W.); (Y.S.); (L.X.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Man Huang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Y.C.); (M.H.); (Y.X.); (K.L.); (X.X.); (L.W.); (Y.S.); (L.X.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Yunling Xuan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Y.C.); (M.H.); (Y.X.); (K.L.); (X.X.); (L.W.); (Y.S.); (L.X.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Ke Li
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Y.C.); (M.H.); (Y.X.); (K.L.); (X.X.); (L.W.); (Y.S.); (L.X.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Xin Xu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Y.C.); (M.H.); (Y.X.); (K.L.); (X.X.); (L.W.); (Y.S.); (L.X.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Y.C.); (M.H.); (Y.X.); (K.L.); (X.X.); (L.W.); (Y.S.); (L.X.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Yang Sun
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Y.C.); (M.H.); (Y.X.); (K.L.); (X.X.); (L.W.); (Y.S.); (L.X.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Lei Xiao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Y.C.); (M.H.); (Y.X.); (K.L.); (X.X.); (L.W.); (Y.S.); (L.X.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Beijing Proteome Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100000, China;
| | - Wei Kong
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China;
| | - Dao Wen Wang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Y.C.); (M.H.); (Y.X.); (K.L.); (X.X.); (L.W.); (Y.S.); (L.X.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanism of Cardiologic Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-027-83663280
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Abstract
Triglyceride-rich lipoproteins deliver fatty acids to tissues for oxidation and for storage. Release of fatty acids from circulating lipoprotein triglycerides is carried out by lipoprotein lipase (LPL), thus LPL serves as a critical gatekeeper of fatty acid uptake into tissues. LPL activity is regulated by a number of extracellular proteins including three members of the angiopoietin-like family of proteins. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of how, where, and when ANGPTL3, ANGPTL4, and ANGPTL8 regulate lipoprotein lipase activity, with a particular emphasis on how these proteins interact with each other to coordinate triglyceride metabolism and fat partitioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelli L Sylvers-Davie
- Department of Biochemistry, Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center, and Obesity Research and Education Initiative, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Brandon S J Davies
- Department of Biochemistry, Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center, and Obesity Research and Education Initiative, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
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Pu X, Sale M, Yang F, Zhang Y, Davis JD, Al-Huniti N. Population pharmacokinetics and exposure-response modeling for evinacumab in homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. CPT Pharmacometrics Syst Pharmacol 2021; 10:1412-1421. [PMID: 34585515 PMCID: PMC8592514 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Evinacumab, an angiopoietin‐like protein 3 (ANGPTL3) inhibitor, has been shown to significantly reduce low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) in patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH). This work characterized the population pharmacokinetics (PK)/pharmacodynamics (PD) of evinacumab using pooled phase III clinical data. Total evinacumab PK were described by a two‐compartment model with combined linear and saturable (Michaelis–Menten) elimination, and first‐order absorption. At clinically relevant concentrations, plasma drug concentrations were mainly influenced by the linear clearance pathway. Although the maximum target‐mediated rate of elimination (Vmax) parameter for the saturable pathway was found to be positively related to baseline ANGPLTL3, variability in body weight contributed more to the variability in evinacumab exposure than variability in ANGPTL3. An effect of HoFH versus healthy volunteers on Vmax was also identified. Weight‐based dosing regimens resulted in consistent evinacumab exposure across weight ranges. An indirect exposure–response model adequately described the relationship between evinacumab and LDL‐C, where drug concentration is assumed to inhibit LDL‐C production. The final population PK/PD model included two nonclinically significant covariates (race and baseline body weight) on the maximum drug‐induced inhibitory effect (Imax) and one (baseline LDL‐C) on the evinacumab concentration inducing 50% of Imax (IC50). A smaller IC50 was observed in patients with higher baseline LDL‐C, suggesting greater sensitivity to treatment. Population exposure–response analysis permitted estimation of derived PD parameters and individual LDL‐C levels over time for patients with HoFH. The model accurately predicted the proportion of patients with HoFH achieving prespecified LDL‐C goals with evinacumab during the ELIPSE HoFH study, further supporting a dosing strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Pu
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York, USA
| | - Mark Sale
- Nuventra, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Feng Yang
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York, USA
| | - Yi Zhang
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York, USA
| | - John D Davis
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York, USA
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Jin M, Meng F, Yang W, Liang L, Wang H, Fu Z. Efficacy and Safety of Evinacumab for the Treatment of Hypercholesterolemia: A Meta-Analysis. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2021; 78:394-402. [PMID: 34117182 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000001073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Angiopoietin-like protein 3 is essential in lipid metabolism regulation. However, the efficacy and safety of evinacumab (angiopoietin-like protein 3 inhibition drug) for hypercholesterolemia treatment is unknown. In this study, a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of evinacumab. RCTs published between January 1, 2000, and November 1, 2020, were obtained from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. All RCTs evaluating the efficacy and safety of evinacumab were included without language restrictions. Our primary end points included the percent change of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) from baseline and the incidence of at least one treatment emergent adverse events including nasopharyngitis, influenza-like illness, headache, dizziness, injection-site reaction, increased aspartate aminotransferase, increased alanine aminotransferase, and any other discomfort during treatments. Percentage changes of triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) from baseline indicated secondary end points. A random-effects model was used to assess pooled data if there was moderate to high heterogeneity between studies. Four studies with 5 RCTs (568 participants) were identified. Evinacumab significantly reduced LDL-C [mean difference (MD) -33.123%, 95% confidence interval (CI), -48.639% to -17.606%, P < 0.0001], triglycerides (MD -50.959%, 95% CI, -56.555% to -45.362%, P < 0.0001), and HDL-C (MD -12.773%, 95% CI, -16.359% to -9.186%, P < 0.0001) compared with placebo. The incidence of at least 1 treatment emergent adverse events was not significantly different between evinacumab and placebo groups (relative risk 1.080, 95% CI, 0.901-1.296, P = 0.405). Evinacumab decreased triglycerides, LDL-C, and HDL-C without significant adverse effects, indicating that it can be a therapeutic strategy for hypercholesterolemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menglong Jin
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China ; and
| | - Fanhua Meng
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Wenwen Yang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China ; and
| | - Liyan Liang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China ; and
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China ; and
| | - Zhenyan Fu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
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Ling P, Zheng X, Luo S, Ge J, Xu S, Weng J. Targeting angiopoietin-like 3 in atherosclerosis: From bench to bedside. Diabetes Obes Metab 2021; 23:2020-2034. [PMID: 34047441 DOI: 10.1111/dom.14450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the largest cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Lipid-lowering therapies are the current major cornerstone of ASCVD management. Statins, ezetimibe, fibrates and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors effectively reduce the plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level in most individuals at risk of atherosclerosis. Still, some patients (such as those with homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia), who do not respond to standard therapies, and other patients who cannot take these agents, remain at a high risk of ASCVD. In recent years there has been tremendous progress in understanding the mechanism and efficacy of lipid-lowering strategies. Apart from the recently approved PCSK9 and ATP citrate lyase inhibitors, angiopoietin-like 3 (ANGPTL3) is another potential target for the treatment of dyslipidaemia and its clinical sequalae of atherosclerosis. ANGPTL3 is a pivotal modulator of plasma triglycerides (TG), LDL-C and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, achieved by inhibiting the activities of lipoprotein lipase and endothelial lipase. Familial combined hypolipidaemia is derived from the Angptl3 loss-of-function mutations, which leads to low levels of LDL-C, HDL-C and TG, and has a 34% decreased risk of ASCVD compared with non-carriers. To date, monoclonal antibodies (evinacumab) and antisense oligonucleotides against ANGPTL3 have been investigated in clinical trials for dyslipidaemia therapy. Herein, we review the biology and function of ANGPTL3, as well as the latest developments of ANGPTL3-targeted therapies. We also summarize evidence from basic research to clinical trials, with the aim of providing novel insights into the biological functions of ANGPTL3 and related targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Ling
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xueying Zheng
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Sihui Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Junbo Ge
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Department of Cardiology, Zhong Shan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Suowen Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jianping Weng
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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Abstract
The recombinant human monoclonal antibody evinacumab (evinacumab-dgnb, EVKEEZA™) is an angiopoietin-like protein three (ANGPTL3) inhibitor that has been developed by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals for the treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HoFH), refractory hypercholesterolemia (both familial and non-familial) and severe hypertriglyceridaemia. Based on the results of the phase III ELIPSE HoFH trial, evinacumab was recently approved in the USA as an adjunct to other LDL-C lowering therapies for the treatment of adult and paediatric patients aged 12 years and older with HoFH, and has received a positive opinion in the EU. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of evinacumab leading to this first approval for HoFH.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The relationship between elevated triglyceride levels (i.e. hypertriglyceridemia) and risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) has been investigated for decades. Recent genetic studies have sought to resolve the decades-old question of a causal relationship. RECENT FINDINGS Genetic studies seem to demonstrate associations between elevated triglyceride levels and ASCVD risk. Mendelian randomization studies suggest this association may be causal. However, simultaneous pleiotropic effects of metabolically linked lipid variables - such as non-HDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein B and HDL cholesterol -- often go unaccounted for in these studies. Complex underlying pleiotropic interactions of triglycerides with these lipid fractions together with unmeasured intercalated nonlipid-related mechanisms, such as inflammation and coagulation, impair the ability of genetic studies to implicate a direct role for triglycerides on ASCVD risk. One potential mechanism seems largely driven by the cholesterol carried within triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and their remnants, rather than their triglyceride content. SUMMARY Although the exact mechanisms linking elevated triglyceride levels to ASCVD remain to be determined, new therapeutics that reduce triglyceride levels might be advantageous in certain patients. Newer investigational triglyceride-lowering therapies derived from human genetics target key proteins, such as apo C-III and ANGPTL3. Although these treatments clearly lower triglyceride levels, their efficacy in atherosclerotic risk reduction remains unproven.
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Nohara A, Tada H, Ogura M, Okazaki S, Ono K, Shimano H, Daida H, Dobashi K, Hayashi T, Hori M, Matsuki K, Minamino T, Yokoyama S, Harada-Shiba M. Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia. J Atheroscler Thromb 2021; 28:665-678. [PMID: 33867421 PMCID: PMC8265428 DOI: 10.5551/jat.rv17050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited disorder with retarded clearance of plasma LDL caused by mutations of the genes involved in the LDL receptor-mediated pathway and most of them exhibit autosomal dominant inheritance. Homozygotes of FH (HoFH) may have plasma LDL-C levels, which are at least twice as high as those of heterozygous FH (HeFH) and therefore four times higher than normal levels. Prevalence of HoFH had been estimated as 1 in 1,000,000 before but more recent genetic analysis surveys predict 1 in 170,000 to 300,000. Since LDL receptor activity is severely impaired, HoFH patients do not or very poorly respond to medications to enhance activity, such as statins, and have a poorer prognosis compared to HeFH. HoFH should therefore be clinically distinguished from HeFH. Thorough family studies and genetic analysis are recommended for their accurate diagnosis. Fatal cardiovascular complications could develop even in the first decade of life for HoFH, so aggressive lipid-lowering therapy should be initiated as early as possible. Direct removal of plasma LDL by lipoprotein apheresis has been the principal measure for these patients. However, this treatment alone may not achieve stable LDL-C target levels and combination with drugs should be considered. The lipid-lowering effects of statins and PCSK9 inhibitors substantially vary depending on the remaining LDL receptor activity of individual patients. On the other hand, the action an MTP inhibitor is independent of LDL receptor activity, and it is effective in most HoFH cases. This review summarizes the key clinical issues of HoFH as well as insurance coverage available under the Japanese public healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Nohara
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Ishikawa Prefectural Central Hospital
| | - Hayato Tada
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | - Masatsune Ogura
- Department of Molecular Innovation in Lipidology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute
| | - Sachiko Okazaki
- Division for Health Service Promotion, The University of Tokyo
| | - Koh Ono
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Hitoshi Shimano
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology and Metabolism), Faculty of Medicine University of Tsukuba
| | - Hiroyuki Daida
- Faculty of Health Science, Juntendo University, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Kazushige Dobashi
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi
| | - Toshio Hayashi
- School of Health Sciences, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Mika Hori
- Department of Endocrinology, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University
| | - Kota Matsuki
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Tetsuo Minamino
- Department of Cardiorenal and Cerebrovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University
| | | | - Mariko Harada-Shiba
- Department of Molecular Pathogenesis, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute
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Abstract
Purpose of review Based on the recent data of the DA VINCI study, it is clear that, besides utilization of statins, there is a need to increase non-statin lipid lowering approaches to reduce the cardiovascular burden in patients at highest risk. Recent findings For hypercholesterolemia, the small synthetic molecule bempedoic acid has the added benefit of selective liver activation, whereas inclisiran, a hepatic inhibitor of the PCSK9 synthesis, has comparable effects with PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies. For hypertriglyceridemia, cardiovascular benefit has been achieved by the use of icosapent ethyl, whereas results with pemafibrate, a selective agonist of PPAR-α, are eagerly awaited. In the era of RNA-based therapies, new options are offered to dramatically reduce levels of lipoprotein(a) (APO(a)LRX) and of triglycerides (ANGPTL3LRX and APOCIII-LRx). Summary Despite the demonstrated benefits of statins, a large number of patients still remain at significant risk because of inadequate LDL-C reduction or elevated blood triglyceride-rich lipoproteins or lipoprotein(a). The area of lipid modulating agents is still ripe with ideas and major novelties are to be awaited in the next few years.
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Sunil B, Foster C, Wilson DP, Ashraf AP. Novel therapeutic targets and agents for pediatric dyslipidemia. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2021; 12:20420188211058323. [PMID: 34868544 PMCID: PMC8637781 DOI: 10.1177/20420188211058323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Landmark studies have convincingly demonstrated that atherosclerosis begins in youth. While generally asymptomatic, an increasing number of youth with disorders of lipid and lipoprotein metabolism, such as familial hypercholesterolemia, are being identified through selective and universal screening. While a heart healthy lifestyle is the foundation of treatment for all youth with dyslipidemia, lipid-lowering therapy may be required by some to prevent morbidity and premature mortality, especially when initiated at a young age. When appropriate, use of statins has become standard of care for reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, while fibrates may be beneficial in helping to lower triglycerides. Many therapeutic options commonly used in adults are not yet approved for use in youth less than 18 years of age. Although currently available lipid-lowering therapy is well tolerated and safe when administered to youth, response to treatment may vary and some conditions lack an efficient therapeutic option. Thus, newer agents are needed to aid in management. Many are in development and clinical trials in youth are currently in progress but will require FDA approval before becoming commercially available. Many utilize novel approaches to favorably alter lipid and lipoprotein metabolism. In the absence of long-term outcome data of youth who were treated beginning at an early age, clinical registries may prove to be useful in monitoring safety and efficacy and help to inform clinical decision-making. In this manuscript, we review currently available and novel therapeutic agents in development for the treatment of elevated cholesterol and triglycerides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhuvana Sunil
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology &
Diabetes, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Christy Foster
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology &
Diabetes, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Don P. Wilson
- Cardiovascular Health and Risk Prevention,
Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Cook Children’s Medical Center, Fort
Worth, TX, USA
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