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Reyes-Soffer G, Yeang C, Michos ED, Boatwright W, Ballantyne CM. High lipoprotein(a): Actionable strategies for risk assessment and mitigation. Am J Prev Cardiol 2024; 18:100651. [PMID: 38646021 PMCID: PMC11031736 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpc.2024.100651] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
High levels of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] are causal for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Lp(a) is the most prevalent inherited dyslipidemia and strongest genetic ASCVD risk factor. This risk persists in the presence of at target, guideline-recommended, LDL-C levels and adherence to lifestyle modifications. Epidemiological and genetic evidence supporting its causal role in ASCVD and calcific aortic stenosis continues to accumulate, although various facets regarding Lp(a) biology (genetics, pathophysiology, and expression across race/ethnic groups) are not yet fully understood. The evolving nature of clinical guidelines and consensus statements recommending universal measurements of Lp(a) and the scientific data supporting its role in multiple disease states reinforce the clinical merit to start population screening for Lp(a) now. There is a current gap in the implementation of recommendations for primary and secondary cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention in those with high Lp(a), in part due to a lack of protocols for management strategies. Importantly, targeted apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)]-lowering therapies that reduce Lp(a) levels in patients with high Lp(a) are in phase 3 clinical development. This review focuses on the identification and clinical management of patients with high Lp(a). Specifically, we highlight the clinical value of measuring Lp(a) and its use in determining Lp(a)-associated CVD risk by providing actionable guidance, based on scientific knowledge, that can be utilized now to mitigate risk caused by high Lp(a).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Calvin Yeang
- Department of Medicine, UC San Diego Health, CA, USA
| | - Erin D Michos
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, MD, USA
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2
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Kaur G, Abdelrahman K, Berman AN, Biery DW, Shiyovich A, Huck D, Garshick M, Blankstein R, Weber B. Lipoprotein(a): Emerging insights and therapeutics. Am J Prev Cardiol 2024; 18:100641. [PMID: 38646022 PMCID: PMC11033089 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpc.2024.100641] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The strong association between lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease has led to considerations of Lp(a) being a potential target for mitigating residual cardiovascular risk. While approximately 20 % of the population has an Lp(a) level greater than 50 mg/dL, there are no currently available pharmacological lipid-lowering therapies that have demonstrated substantial reduction in Lp(a). Novel therapies to lower Lp(a) include antisense oligonucleotides and small-interfering ribonucleic acid molecules and have shown promising results in phase 2 trials. Phase 3 trials are currently underway and will test the causal relationship between Lp(a) and ASCVD and whether lowering Lp(a) reduces cardiovascular outcomes. In this review, we summarize emerging insights related to Lp(a)'s role as a risk-enhancing factor for ASCVD, association with calcific aortic stenosis, effects of existing therapies on Lp(a) levels, and variations amongst patient populations. The evolving therapeutic landscape of emerging therapeutics is further discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurleen Kaur
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Adam N. Berman
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David W. Biery
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Arthur Shiyovich
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Huck
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Ron Blankstein
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brittany Weber
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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3
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Delgado-Lista J, Mostaza JM, Arrobas-Velilla T, Blanco-Vaca F, Masana L, Pedro-Botet J, Perez-Martinez P, Civeira F, Cuende-Melero JI, Gomez-Barrado JJ, Lahoz C, Pintó X, Suarez-Tembra M, Lopez-Miranda J, Guijarro C. Consensus on lipoprotein(a) of the Spanish Society of Arteriosclerosis. Literature review and recommendations for clinical practice. Clin Investig Arterioscler 2024:S0214-9168(24)00023-8. [PMID: 38599943 DOI: 10.1016/j.arteri.2024.03.002] [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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
The irruption of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) in the study of cardiovascular risk factors is perhaps, together with the discovery and use of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (iPCSK9) inhibitor drugs, the greatest novelty in the field for decades. Lp(a) concentration (especially very high levels) has an undeniable association with certain cardiovascular complications, such as atherosclerotic vascular disease (AVD) and aortic stenosis. However, there are several current limitations to both establishing epidemiological associations and specific pharmacological treatment. Firstly, the measurement of Lp(a) is highly dependent on the test used, mainly because of the characteristics of the molecule. Secondly, Lp(a) concentration is more than 80% genetically determined, so that, unlike other cardiovascular risk factors, it cannot be regulated by lifestyle changes. Finally, although there are many promising clinical trials with specific drugs to reduce Lp(a), currently only iPCSK9 (limited for use because of its cost) significantly reduces Lp(a). However, and in line with other scientific societies, the SEA considers that, with the aim of increasing knowledge about the contribution of Lp(a) to cardiovascular risk, it is relevant to produce a document containing the current status of the subject, recommendations for the control of global cardiovascular risk in people with elevated Lp(a) and recommendations on the therapeutic approach to patients with elevated Lp(a).
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Delgado-Lista
- Unidad de Lípidos y Aterosclerosis, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía; Departamento de Ciencias Médicas y Quirúrgicas, Universidad de Córdoba; IMIBIC, Córdoba; CIBER Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, España.
| | - Jose M Mostaza
- Unidad de Lípidos y Riesgo Vascular, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, España
| | - Teresa Arrobas-Velilla
- Sociedad Española de Medicina de Laboratorio (SEQCML), Laboratorio de Bioquímica Clínica, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Sevilla, España
| | - Francisco Blanco-Vaca
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona; CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, España
| | - Luis Masana
- Unidad de Medicina Vascular y Metabolismo, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, IISPV, CIBERDEM, Reus, Tarragona, España
| | - Juan Pedro-Botet
- Unidad de Lípidos y Riesgo Vascular, Servicio de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona; Departamento de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - Pablo Perez-Martinez
- Unidad de Lípidos y Aterosclerosis, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía; Departamento de Ciencias Médicas y Quirúrgicas, Universidad de Córdoba; IMIBIC, Córdoba; CIBER Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, España
| | - Fernando Civeira
- Unidad Clínica y de Investigación en Lípidos y Arteriosclerosis, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, IIS Aragón, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza; CIBER Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, España
| | - Jose I Cuende-Melero
- Consulta de Riesgo Vascular, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Palencia, Palencia; Departamento de Medicina, Dermatología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, España
| | - Jose J Gomez-Barrado
- Unidad de Cuidados Cardiológicos Agudos y Riesgo Cardiovascular, Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario San Pedro de Alcántara, Cáceres, España
| | - Carlos Lahoz
- Unidad de Lípidos y Arteriosclerosis, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital La Paz-Carlos III, Madrid, España
| | - Xavier Pintó
- Unidad de Lípidos y Riesgo Vascular, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario de Bellvitge-Idibell-Universidad de Barcelona-CiberObn, España
| | - Manuel Suarez-Tembra
- Unidad de Lípidos y RCV, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital San Rafael, A Coruña, España
| | - Jose Lopez-Miranda
- Unidad de Lípidos y Aterosclerosis, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía; Departamento de Ciencias Médicas y Quirúrgicas, Universidad de Córdoba; IMIBIC, Córdoba; CIBER Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, España.
| | - Carlos Guijarro
- Unidad de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcón, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, España
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Pogran E, Burger AL, Zweiker D, Kaufmann CC, Muthspiel M, Rega-Kaun G, Wenkstetten-Holub A, Wojta J, Drexel H, Huber K. Lipid-Lowering Therapy after Acute Coronary Syndrome. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2043. [PMID: 38610808 PMCID: PMC11012397 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13072043] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Achieving guideline-recommended low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) targets remains a significant challenge in clinical practice. This review assesses the barriers to reaching LDL-C goals and explores the potential solutions to these issues. When aiming for the recommended LDL-C goal, strategies like "lower is better" and "strike early and strong" should be used. The evidence supports the safety and efficacy of intensive lipid-lowering therapy post-acute coronary syndrome (ACS), leading to improved long-term cardiovascular health and atherosclerotic plaque stabilization. Despite the availability of effective lipid-lowering therapies, such as high-intensity statins, ezetimibe, the combination of both, bempedoic acid, and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors, a substantial proportion of patients do not meet their LDL-C targets. Contributing factors include systemic healthcare barriers, healthcare provider inertia, patient non-adherence, and statin intolerance. Statin intolerance, often rather statin reluctance, is a notable obstacle due to perceived or expected side effects, which can lead to discontinuation of therapy. In conclusion, while there are obstacles to achieving optimal LDL-C levels post-ACS, these can be overcome with a combination of patient-centric approaches, clinical vigilance, and the judicious use of available therapies. The safety and necessity of reaching lower LDL-C goals to improve outcomes in patients post-ACS are well-supported by current evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edita Pogran
- 3rd Medical Department for Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria
- Medical Faculty, Sigmund Freud University, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| | - Achim Leo Burger
- 3rd Medical Department for Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria
- Medical Faculty, Sigmund Freud University, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| | - David Zweiker
- 3rd Medical Department for Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Clemens Kaufmann
- 3rd Medical Department for Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria
- Medical Faculty, Sigmund Freud University, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marie Muthspiel
- 3rd Medical Department for Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria
- Medical Faculty, Sigmund Freud University, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gersina Rega-Kaun
- 5th Medical Department with Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Acute Geriatrics, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria; (G.R.-K.)
| | - Alfa Wenkstetten-Holub
- 5th Medical Department with Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Acute Geriatrics, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria; (G.R.-K.)
| | - Johann Wojta
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cardiovascular Research, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
- Core Facilities, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Heinz Drexel
- Vorarlberg Institute for Vascular Investigation and Treatment (VIVIT), Carinagasse 47, 6800 Feldkirch, Austria
| | - Kurt Huber
- 3rd Medical Department for Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinik Ottakring, 1160 Vienna, Austria
- Medical Faculty, Sigmund Freud University, 1020 Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cardiovascular Research, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
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Xie S, Galimberti F, Olmastroni E, Luscher TF, Carugo S, Catapano AL, Casula M. Effect of lipid-lowering therapies on C-reactive protein levels: a comprehensive meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Cardiovasc Res 2024; 120:333-344. [PMID: 38373008 PMCID: PMC10981526 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvae034] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic low-degree inflammation is a hallmark of atherosclerotic cardiovascular (CV) disease. To assess the effect of lipid-lowering therapies on C-reactive protein (CRP), a biomarker of inflammation, we conducted a meta-analysis according to the PRISMA guidelines. Databases were searched from inception to July 2023. Inclusion criteria were: (i) randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in human, Phase II, III, or IV; (ii) English language; (iii) comparing the effect of lipid-lowering drugs vs. placebo; (iv) reporting the effects on CRP levels; (v) with intervention duration of more than 3 weeks; (vi) and sample size (for both intervention and control group) over than 100 subjects. The between-group (treatment-placebo) CRP absolute mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for each drug class separately. A total of 171 668 subjects from 53 RCTs were included. CRP levels (mg/L) were significantly decreased by statins [-0.65 (-0.87 to -0.43), bempedoic acid; -0.43 (-0.67 to -0.20), ezetimibe; -0.28 (-0.48 to -0.08)], and omega-3 fatty acids [omega3FAs, -0.27 (-0.52 to -0.01)]. CRP was reduced by -0.40 (-1.17 to 0.38) with fibrates, although not statistically significant. A slight increase of CRP concentration was observed for proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors [0.11 (0.07-0.14)] and cholesteryl-ester transfer protein inhibitors [0.10 (0.00-0.21)], the latter being not statistically significant. Meta-regression analysis did not show a significant correlation between changes in CRP and LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) or triglycerides. Statins, bempedoic acid, ezetimibe, and omega3FAs significantly reduce serum CRP concentration, independently of LDL-C reductions. The impact of this anti-inflammatory effect in terms of CV prevention needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sining Xie
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, via Balzaretti 9, 20033 Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Galimberti
- IRCCS MultiMedica, via Milanese 300, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni (Milan), Italy
| | - Elena Olmastroni
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, via Balzaretti 9, 20033 Milan, Italy
- IRCCS MultiMedica, via Milanese 300, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni (Milan), Italy
| | - Thomas F Luscher
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University Zurich, Wagistrasse 12, 8952 Schlieren (Zurich), Switzerland
- Cardiac Unit, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals GSTT, Imperial College and King’s College London, Sydney Street, SW3 6NP London, UK
| | - Stefano Carugo
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, via della Commenda 19, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico of Milan, via Francesco Sforza 28, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Alberico L Catapano
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, via Balzaretti 9, 20033 Milan, Italy
- IRCCS MultiMedica, via Milanese 300, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni (Milan), Italy
| | - Manuela Casula
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, via Balzaretti 9, 20033 Milan, Italy
- IRCCS MultiMedica, via Milanese 300, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni (Milan), Italy
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6
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Koschinsky ML, Bajaj A, Boffa MB, Dixon DL, Ferdinand KC, Gidding SS, Gill EA, Jacobson TA, Michos ED, Safarova MS, Soffer DE, Taub PR, Wilkinson MJ, Wilson DP, Ballantyne CM. A focused update to the 2019 NLA scientific statement on use of lipoprotein(a) in clinical practice. J Clin Lipidol 2024:S1933-2874(24)00033-3. [PMID: 38565461 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacl.2024.03.001] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Since the 2019 National Lipid Association (NLA) Scientific Statement on Use of Lipoprotein(a) in Clinical Practice was issued, accumulating epidemiological data have clarified the relationship between lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] level and cardiovascular disease risk and risk reduction. Therefore, the NLA developed this focused update to guide clinicians in applying this emerging evidence in clinical practice. We now have sufficient evidence to support the recommendation to measure Lp(a) levels at least once in every adult for risk stratification. Individuals with Lp(a) levels <75 nmol/L (30 mg/dL) are considered low risk, individuals with Lp(a) levels ≥125 nmol/L (50 mg/dL) are considered high risk, and individuals with Lp(a) levels between 75 and 125 nmol/L (30-50 mg/dL) are at intermediate risk. Cascade screening of first-degree relatives of patients with elevated Lp(a) can identify additional individuals at risk who require intervention. Patients with elevated Lp(a) should receive early, more-intensive risk factor management, including lifestyle modification and lipid-lowering drug therapy in high-risk individuals, primarily to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved an indication for lipoprotein apheresis (which reduces both Lp(a) and LDL-C) in high-risk patients with familial hypercholesterolemia and documented coronary or peripheral artery disease whose Lp(a) level remains ≥60 mg/dL [∼150 nmol/L)] and LDL-C ≥ 100 mg/dL on maximally tolerated lipid-lowering therapy. Although Lp(a) is an established independent causal risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and despite the high prevalence of Lp(a) elevation (∼1 of 5 individuals), measurement rates are low, warranting improved screening strategies for cardiovascular disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlys L Koschinsky
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology and Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada (Drs Koschinsky, Boffa)
| | - Archna Bajaj
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA (Drs Bajaj, Soffer)
| | - Michael B Boffa
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology and Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada (Drs Koschinsky, Boffa)
| | - Dave L Dixon
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Pharmacy, Richmond, VA, USA (Dr Dixon)
| | - Keith C Ferdinand
- Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA (Dr. Ferdinand)
| | - Samuel S Gidding
- Department of Genomic Health, Geisinger. Danville, PA, USA (Dr Gidding)
| | - Edward A Gill
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA (Dr Gill)
| | - Terry A Jacobson
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA (Dr Jacobson)
| | - Erin D Michos
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA (Dr Michos)
| | - Maya S Safarova
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA (Dr Safarova)
| | - Daniel E Soffer
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA (Drs Bajaj, Soffer)
| | - Pam R Taub
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA (Drs Taub, Wilkinson)
| | - Michael J Wilkinson
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA (Drs Taub, Wilkinson)
| | - Don P Wilson
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Cook Children's Medical Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA (Dr Wilson)
| | - Christie M Ballantyne
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA (Dr Ballantyne).
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Reddy S, Deoker A. Effects of bempedoic acid on markers of inflammation and Lp(a). Curr Opin Cardiol 2024:00001573-990000000-00137. [PMID: 38456474 DOI: 10.1097/hco.0000000000001137] [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] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To study the effect of bempedoic acid on markers of inflammation and lipoprotein (a) to help determine if the drug would be useful to treat patients with elevated cardiovascular risks and residual cardiovascular risk despite optimal low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. RECENT FINDINGS Bempedoic acid is found to cause significant reduction in LDL-C and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in various randomized clinical trials. Multiple meta-analyses have also found that bempedoic acid therapy leads to reduction in non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), total cholesterol (TC) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) levels. However, it has minimal effect on lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) level. SUMMARY Bempedoic acid is a new lipid-lowering agent that inhibits enzyme ATP-citrate lyase in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. Major risk of cardiovascular events and its associated morbidity and mortality are proportional to LDL-C and inflammatory markers levels. It was found that bempedoic acid significantly lowers LDL-C, hs-CRP and other inflammatory markers levels. This drug could potentially be used in patients with elevated cardiovascular risk, in patients with residual cardiovascular risk despite attaining LDL-C goal and in statin intolerant patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukhila Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, Texas, USA
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8
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Ferri N, Ruscica M, Fazio S, Corsini A. Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs: A Narrative Review. J Clin Med 2024; 13:943. [PMID: 38398257 PMCID: PMC10889346 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13040943] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The modern history of cholesterol-lowering drugs started in 1972 when Dr. Akira Endo identified an active compound (compactin) that inhibited cholesterol biosynthesis from the culture broth of blue-green mold (Penicillium citrinum Pen-51). Since 1987, statins have represented the milestone for the treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. A new therapy for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia since the discovery of statins is ezetimibe, the first and only agent inhibiting intestinal cholesterol absorption. Ezetimibe was approved by the FDA in October 2002. A year later, the association between gain-of-function PCSK9 genetic mutations and hypercholesterolemia was reported, and this discovery opened a new era in lipid-lowering therapies. Monoclonal antibodies and small-interfering RNA approaches to reduce PCSK9 were developed and approved for clinical use in 2015 and 2022, respectively. Finally, the newly approved bempedoic acid, an oral adenosine triphosphate citrate lyase inhibitor that lowers LDL-C, is able to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events in both primary and secondary prevention. In the present narrative review, we summarize the pharmacological properties and the clinical efficacy of all these agents currently used for a tailored therapy of hypercholesterolemia in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Ferri
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), 35129 Padua, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Ruscica
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy;
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic-Vascular Diseases, Foundation IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Sergio Fazio
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA;
| | - Alberto Corsini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy;
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Xiong C, Yu Q, Gao F, Liu S, Zhang J, Ma T, Liu S. Prognostic significance of IL-18 in acute coronary syndrome patients. Clin Cardiol 2024; 47:e24229. [PMID: 38402570 PMCID: PMC10823553 DOI: 10.1002/clc.24229] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND After acute coronary syndrome (ACS), inflammation aids healing but may harm the heart. Interleukin (IL)-18 and IL-1β are pivotal proinflammatory cytokines released during pyroptosis, a process that initiates and sustains inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the levels of circulating IL-18 and IL-1β during the progression of ACS and to determine their association with subsequent clinical events in ACS patients. HYPOTHESIS Circulating levels of IL-18 and IL-1β are associated with subsequent clinical events in ACS patients. METHODS Employing immunoassays, we examined plasma levels of IL-1β and IL-18 in 159 ACS patients and matched them with 159 healthy controls. The primary composite endpoint included recurrent unstable angina, myocardial infarction, heart failure exacerbation, stroke, or cardiovascular death. RESULTS ACS patients exhibited a significant increase in plasma IL-18 levels, measuring 6.36 [4.46-9.88] × 102 pg/mL, in contrast to the control group with levels at 4.04 [3.21-4.94] × 102 pg/mL (p < 0.001). Conversely, plasma levels of IL-1β remained unchanged compared to the control group. Following a 25-month follow-up, IL-18 levels exceeding the median remained an important prognostic factor for adverse clinical events in ACS patients (hazard ratio = 2.37, 95% confidence interval: 1.14-4.91, p = 0.021). Besides, IL-18 displayed a nonlinear association with adverse clinical events (p nonlinear = 0.044). Subgroup analysis revealed that the correlation between IL-18 and the risk of adverse clinical events was not significantly affected by factors such as age, sex, history of diabetes, smoking, Gensini score, or ACS type (all p interaction >0.05). CONCLUSION IL-18 appears to hold potential as a predictive marker for anticipating clinical outcomes in patients with ACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenchun Xiong
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen UniversityXiamen UniversityXiamenFujianChina
| | - Qiaoting Yu
- Shengli Clinical Medical CollegeFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouFujianChina
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen UniversityXiamen UniversityXiamenFujianChina
- Shengli Clinical Medical CollegeFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouFujianChina
| | - Song Liu
- Hospital of Guizhou Medical UniversityGuiyangGuizhouChina
| | - Jianhui Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen UniversityXiamen UniversityXiamenFujianChina
| | - Tianyi Ma
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen UniversityXiamen UniversityXiamenFujianChina
| | - Suifeng Liu
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen UniversityXiamen UniversityXiamenFujianChina
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10
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Paponja K, Pećin I, Reiner Ž, Banach M. Bempedoic acid: new evidence and recommendations on use. Curr Opin Lipidol 2024; 35:41-50. [PMID: 38085172 DOI: 10.1097/mol.0000000000000911] [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: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSES OF REVIEW Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Recognizing the importance of dyslipidemia treatment in the prevention of cardiovascular events has become a part of standard clinical practice. Desired values of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) have become lower and lower in the last few decades, as evidenced by the most recent guidelines. Therefore, efforts to lower LDL cholesterol concentrations with conventional therapies and combinations of lipid-lowering therapy may not be successful in a high proportion of patients. RECENT FINDINGS Bempedoic acid is a novel agent, first in-class ATP Citrate Lyase (ACL) inhibitor, which targets biosynthesis of the cholesterol in the liver. Considering the results of phase 3 studies, it has been approved for sole use for dyslipidemia treatment for patients who are statin-intolerant or in combination with statin-ezetimibe for those suffering from familial hypercholesterolemia or ASCVD and unable to reach targeted LDL-C values. SUMMARY Bempedoic acid has proven beneficial for further reduction of LDL cholesterol for targeted groups of patients. It is not only efficient but also a well tolerated, affordable, and available agent whose place in lipid-lowering management is yet to be fully understood with new data collected from ongoing clinical research. In this review we suggest the place of bempedoic acid in lipid-lowering management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Paponja
- University Hospital Center Zagreb, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolic Diseases
| | - Ivan Pećin
- University Hospital Center Zagreb, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolic Diseases
- Zagreb School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Željko Reiner
- University Hospital Center Zagreb, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolic Diseases
- Department of Cardiology and Congenital Diseases of Adults, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Cardiology and Congenital Diseases of Adults, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Medical University of Lodz (MUL), Lodz, Poland
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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11
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Ridker PM, Lei L, Louie MJ, Haddad T, Nicholls SJ, Lincoff AM, Libby P, Nissen SE. Inflammation and Cholesterol as Predictors of Cardiovascular Events Among 13 970 Contemporary High-Risk Patients With Statin Intolerance. Circulation 2024; 149:28-35. [PMID: 37929602 PMCID: PMC10752259 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.066213] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among patients treated with statin therapy to guideline-recommended cholesterol levels, residual inflammatory risk assessed by high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is at least as strong a predictor of future cardiovascular events as is residual risk assessed by low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC). Whether these relationships are present among statin-intolerant patients with higher LDLC levels is uncertain but has implications for the choice of preventive therapies, including bempedoic acid, an agent that reduces both LDLC and hsCRP. METHODS The multinational CLEAR-Outcomes trial (Cholesterol Lowering via Bempedoic Acid, an ACL-Inhibiting Regimen Outcomes Trial) randomly allocated 13 970 statin-intolerant patients to 180 mg of oral bempedoic acid daily or matching placebo and followed them for a 4-component composite of incident myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary revascularization, or cardiovascular death, and for all-cause mortality. Quartiles of increasing baseline hsCRP and LDLC were assessed as predictors of future adverse events after adjustment for traditional risk factors and randomized treatment assignment. RESULTS Compared with placebo, bempedoic acid reduced median hsCRP by 21.6% and mean LDLC levels by 21.1% at 6 months. Baseline hsCRP was significantly associated with the primary composite end point of major cardiovascular events (highest versus lowest hsCRP quartile; hazard ratio [HR], 1.43 [95% CI, 1.24-1.65]), cardiovascular mortality (HR, 2.00 [95% CI, 1.53-2.61]), and all-cause mortality (HR, 2.21 [95% CI, 1.79-2.73]). By contrast, the relationship of baseline LDLC quartile (highest versus lowest) to future events was smaller in magnitude for the primary composite cardiovascular end point (HR, 1.19 [95% CI, 1.04-1.37]) and neutral for cardiovascular mortality (HR, 0.90 [95% CI, 0.70-1.17]) and all-cause mortality (HR, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.78-1.16]). Risks were high for those with elevated hsCRP irrespective of LDLC level. Bempedoic acid demonstrated similar efficacy in reducing cardiovascular events across all levels of hsCRP and LDLC. CONCLUSIONS Among contemporary statin-intolerant patients, inflammation assessed by hsCRP predicted risk for future cardiovascular events and death more strongly than hyperlipidemia assessed by LDLC. Compared with placebo, bempedoic acid had similar efficacy for reducing cardiovascular risk across hsCRP and LDLC strata. REGISTRATION URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT02993406.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Ridker
- Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA (P.M.R., P.L.)
| | - Lei Lei
- Esperion Therapeutics, Ann Arbor, MI (L.L., M.J.L.)
| | | | - Tariq Haddad
- Inova Heart and Vascular Institute, Falls Church, VA (T.H.)
| | | | | | - Peter Libby
- Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA (P.M.R., P.L.)
| | - Steven E. Nissen
- The Cleveland Clinic Heart and Vascular Institute, OH (A.M.L., S.E.N.)
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12
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Albosta M, Grant JK, Michos ED. Bempedoic Acid: Lipid Lowering for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention. Heart Int 2023; 17:27-34. [PMID: 38419721 PMCID: PMC10900064 DOI: 10.17925/hi.2023.17.2.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The management of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels is a central strategy for the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Current United States (2018 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology/Multisociety) and European (2019 European Society of Cardiology/European Atherosclerosis Society) guidelines endorse statin therapy as the first-line therapy for pharmacologic LDL-C lowering. However, in clinical practice up to 30% of patients report partial or complete intolerance to statin therapy. While the nocebo effect with statins is well described, perceived statin intolerance prevents many patients from achieving LDL-C thresholds associated with clinical benefit. Bempedoic acid is a novel, oral, non-statin lipid-l owering therapy that works by inhibiting adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase, an enzymatic reaction upstream of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase in the hepatic cholesterol synthesis pathway. Bempedoic acid confers reduction in LDL-C of ~18% on background statin therapy,~21% in patients with statin intolerance, and ~38% when given in fixed-dose combination with ezetimibe. The CLEAR Outcomes trial, which enrolled high-risk primary and secondary prevention patients with reported statin intolerance and LDL-C levels ≥100 mg/dL, showed that bempedoic acid compared with placebo reduced 4-component major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) by 13% (hazard ratio 0.87, 95% confidence interval 0.79-0.96). Bempedoic acid also reduced 3-component MACE by 15%, myocardial infarction by 23% and coronary revascularization by 19%. The benefit was even greater in the primary prevention cohort (hazard ratio 0.70, 95% confidence interval 0.55-0.89) for 4-component MACE. Bempedoic acid was associated with increases in uric acid levels and cholelithiasis, but numerically fewer events of myalgia and new-onset diabetes. These findings confirm that bempedoic acid is an effective approach to reduce cardiovascular outcomes in high-risk patients with statin intolerance who require further reduction in LDL-C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Albosta
- Internal Medicine Department, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jelani K Grant
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Erin D Michos
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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13
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Zhang J, Guan X, Zhang B, Wang J, Jin X, Zhao Y, Li B. Bempedoic Acid can Reduce Cardiovascular Events in Combination with Statins or As Monotherapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Am J Cardiovasc Drugs 2023; 23:695-708. [PMID: 37672202 DOI: 10.1007/s40256-023-00606-4] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM Bempedoic acid has shown noteworthy progress in the prevention and management of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in recent years. However, there has been a lack of high-quality evidence regarding the risk reduction of clinical events with bempedoic acid. Therefore, the aim of this article is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of bempedoic acid on the incidence of cardiovascular events. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials pertaining to bempedoic acid was carried out. We conducted a systematic search across the Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases to identify relevant studies published from inception to 23 April 2023. A total of four trials comparing the clinical benefit achieved with bempedoic acid versus placebo were included. RESULTS Our analysis comprised four trials that encompassed a total of 17,323 patients. In comparison to the placebo, bempedoic acid showed a significant reduction in the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) [relative risk (RR), 0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.87-0.94]. Additionally, bempedoic acid substantially lowered the occurrence of fatal or nonfatal myocardial infarction (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.66-0.89), hospitalization for unstable angina (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.55-0.89), and coronary revascularization (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.73-0.92). There was also a similar reduction in MACE in patients on the maximally tolerated statin therapy. CONCLUSION Bempedoic acid may reduce the risk of cardiovascular events regardless of whether the patient is taking stains or not. REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration number CRD42023422932.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Zhang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangfeng Guan
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, People's Republic of China
| | - Baixue Zhang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, No. 661 Huanghe 2nd Road, Binzhou City, 256603, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaodong Jin
- Department of Geriatrics, Zibo Central Hospital, No. 10, South Shanghai Road, Zibo, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yunhe Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Zibo Central Hospital Affiliated to Binzhou Medical College, NO.10, South Shanghai Road, Zibo, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Cardiology, Zibo Central Hospital Affiliated to Binzhou Medical College, NO.10, South Shanghai Road, Zibo, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Reijnders E, van der Laarse A, Jukema JW, Cobbaert CM. High residual cardiovascular risk after lipid-lowering: prime time for Predictive, Preventive, Personalized, Participatory, and Psycho-cognitive medicine. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1264319. [PMID: 37908502 PMCID: PMC10613690 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1264319] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
As time has come to translate trial results into individualized medical diagnosis and therapy, we analyzed how to minimize residual risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by reviewing papers on "residual cardiovascular disease risk". During this review process we found 989 papers that started off with residual CVD risk after initiating statin therapy, continued with papers on residual CVD risk after initiating therapy to increase high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), followed by papers on residual CVD risk after initiating therapy to decrease triglyceride (TG) levels. Later on, papers dealing with elevated levels of lipoprotein remnants and lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] reported new risk factors of residual CVD risk. And as new risk factors are being discovered and new therapies are being tested, residual CVD risk will be reduced further. As we move from CVD risk reduction to improvement of patient management, a paradigm shift from a reductionistic approach towards a holistic approach is required. To that purpose, a personalized treatment dependent on the individual's CVD risk factors including lipid profile abnormalities should be configured, along the line of P5 medicine for each individual patient, i.e., with Predictive, Preventive, Personalized, Participatory, and Psycho-cognitive approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Reijnders
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - A. van der Laarse
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - J. W. Jukema
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - C. M. Cobbaert
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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15
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Alhomoud IS, Talasaz A, Mehta A, Kelly MS, Sisson EM, Bucheit JD, Brown R, Dixon DL. Role of lipoprotein(a) in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: A review of current and emerging therapies. Pharmacotherapy 2023; 43:1051-1063. [PMID: 37464942 DOI: 10.1002/phar.2851] [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] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is structurally like low-density lipoprotein (LDL) but differs in that it contains glycoprotein apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)]. Due to its prothrombotic and proinflammatory properties, Lp(a) is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and aortic valve stenosis. Lp(a) levels are genetically determined, and it is estimated that 20%-25% of the global population has an Lp(a) level ≥50 mg/dL (or ≥125 nmol/L). Diet and lifestyle interventions have little to no effect on Lp(a) levels. Lipoprotein apheresis is the only approved treatment for elevated Lp(a) but is time-intensive for the patient and only modestly effective. Pharmacological approaches to reduce Lp(a) levels and its associated risks are of significant interest; however, currently available lipid-lowering therapies have limited effectiveness in reducing Lp(a) levels. Although statins are first-line agents to reduce LDL cholesterol levels, they modestly increase Lp(a) levels and have not been shown to change Lp(a)-mediated ASCVD risk. Alirocumab, evolocumab, and inclisiran reduce Lp(a) levels by 20-25%, yet the clinical implications of this reduction for Lp(a)-mediated ASCVD risk are uncertain. Niacin also lowers Lp(a) levels; however, its effectiveness in mitigating Lp(a)-mediated ASCVD risk remains unclear, and its side effects have limited its utilization. Recommendations for when to screen and how to manage individuals with elevated Lp(a) vary widely between national and international guidelines and scientific statements. Three investigational compounds targeting Lp(a), including small interfering RNA (siRNA) agents (olpasiran, SLN360) and an antisense oligonucleotide (pelacarsen), are in various stages of development. These compounds block the translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) into apo(a), a key structural component of Lp(a), thereby substantially reducing Lp(a) synthesis in the liver. The purpose of this review is to describe current recommendations for screening and managing elevated Lp(a), describe the effects of currently available lipid-lowering therapies on Lp(a) levels, and provide insight into emerging therapies targeting Lp(a).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim S Alhomoud
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azita Talasaz
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Anurag Mehta
- Division of Cardiology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Michael S Kelly
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Thomas Jefferson University College of Pharmacy, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Evan M Sisson
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - John D Bucheit
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Roy Brown
- School of Nursing, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Dave L Dixon
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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16
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Cordero A, Fernández Olmo R, Badimon L, Santos-Gallego CG, Castellano JM, Fácila L, Rodriguez-Manero M, Bonanad C, Vilahur G, Escribano D, Badimon JJ, González-Juanatey JR. The efficacy of intensive lipid-lowering therapies on the reduction of LDLc and of major cardiovascular events. J Clin Lipidol 2023; 17:602-611. [PMID: 37775463 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacl.2023.08.006] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Statins are the cornerstone of lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) for reduction of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc) levels and high percentage of patients require LLT combinations or alternative treatments for adequate LDLc control. METHODS We performed an intention-to-treat meta-analysis of published data of phase III trials evaluating LLT efficacy on major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). The primary endpoint was MACE incidence, as reported in each trial, and secondary analyses included myocardial infarction, stroke and mortality. RESULTS Eleven clinical trials and 135,688 patients were included; seven trials tested high intensity LLT and 4 LLT combinations. Intensive LLT reduced MACE risk by 15% (12.03% vs. 13.79%, HR: 0.85 95% CI 0.80-0.90; p<0.001). The number needed to treat was 56 patients. Meta-regression analyses showed a linear correlation between absolute LDLc reductions and the risk of MACE. Significant reductions in myocardial infarction (HR: 0.83, 95% CI 0.80-0.86) and stroke (HR: 0.81, 95% CI 0.75-0.87) were observed. Cardiovascular death rate was 3.32% in LLT treatment arm vs. 3.56% in controls, resulting in a HR: 0.94 (95% CI 0.88-0.99; p = 0.03); no effect on all-cause mortality was observed (HR: 0.97 95% CI 0.93-1.01; p = 0.09). The sensitivity analyses verified the lack of heterogeneity, except for MACE that was mainly driven by the divergent results of the 2 trials. Small study effect was detected for the assessment of mortality. CONCLUSIONS Current evidence consistently supports the efficacy of available intensity LLT for LDLc decrease on MACE and cardiovascular mortality reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Cordero
- Cardiology Department. Hospital IMED. Elche, Spain (Dr Cordero); Grupo de Investigación Cardiovascular (GRINCAVA). Universidad Miguel Hernández. Elche, Spain (Dr Cordero); Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV). Spain (Drs Cordero, Badimon, Rodriguez-Manero, Bonanad, Vilahur and González-Juanatey).
| | | | - Lina Badimon
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV). Spain (Drs Cordero, Badimon, Rodriguez-Manero, Bonanad, Vilahur and González-Juanatey); Cardiovascular Program-ICCC, IR-Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain (Dr Badimon and Vilahur); Cardiovascular Research Chair, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain (Dr Badimon)
| | - Carlos G Santos-Gallego
- Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA (Drs Santos-Gallego and Badimon); Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA (Drs Santos-Gallego and Badimon)
| | - José M Castellano
- Centro Integral de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIEC), Hospital Universitario HM Monteprincipe, Grupo HM Hospitales, Madrid, Spain (Dr Castellano)
| | - Lorenzo Fácila
- Cardiology Department, Consorcio Hospital General de Valencia, Valencia, Spain (Dr Fácila)
| | - Moisés Rodriguez-Manero
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV). Spain (Drs Cordero, Badimon, Rodriguez-Manero, Bonanad, Vilahur and González-Juanatey); Cardiology Department, Complejo Hospital Universitario de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela, Spain (Drs Rodriguez-Manero and González-Juanatey)
| | - Clara Bonanad
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV). Spain (Drs Cordero, Badimon, Rodriguez-Manero, Bonanad, Vilahur and González-Juanatey); Cardiology Department, Hospital Clínico, Valencia, Spain (Dr Bonanad)
| | - Gemma Vilahur
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV). Spain (Drs Cordero, Badimon, Rodriguez-Manero, Bonanad, Vilahur and González-Juanatey); Cardiovascular Program-ICCC, IR-Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain (Dr Badimon and Vilahur)
| | - David Escribano
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Universitario de San Juan, Alicante, Spain (Dr Escribano)
| | - Juan J Badimon
- Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA (Drs Santos-Gallego and Badimon); Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA (Drs Santos-Gallego and Badimon)
| | - José R González-Juanatey
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV). Spain (Drs Cordero, Badimon, Rodriguez-Manero, Bonanad, Vilahur and González-Juanatey); Cardiology Department, Complejo Hospital Universitario de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela, Spain (Drs Rodriguez-Manero and González-Juanatey)
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17
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Korosoglou G, Giesen A, Geiss E, Stach K. Case report: Strong low-density-cholesterol reduction accompanied by shrinkage of low-attenuation coronary plaque during lipid-lowering treatment with bempedoic acid-serial evaluation by coronary computed tomography angiography. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1203832. [PMID: 37600047 PMCID: PMC10436545 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1203832] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we present a patient with coronary artery disease and prior percutaneous coronary interventions. This patient had to discontinue taking multiple statins and ezetimibe due to intolerance with musculoskeletal complaints and nausea. Monotherapy with bempedoic acid was well tolerated and was exceptionally effective at lipid lowering, enabling patients to achieve the low-density lipoprotein target of <55 mg/dl, as recommended by current guidelines. In addition, serial coronary computed tomography angiography performed upon clinical indications, during 20 months of lipid-lowering treatment with bempedoic acid, demonstrated signs of favorable plaque component modification, with shrinkage of the low-attenuation plaque component compared to baseline findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigorios Korosoglou
- Department of Cardiology, Vascular Medicine & Pneumology, GRN Hospital Weinheim, Weinheim, Germany
- Weinheim Imaging Center, Hector Foundation, Weinheim, Germany
- University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Giesen
- Department of Cardiology, Vascular Medicine & Pneumology, GRN Hospital Weinheim, Weinheim, Germany
- Weinheim Imaging Center, Hector Foundation, Weinheim, Germany
| | - Eva Geiss
- Fifth Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ksenija Stach
- Fifth Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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Mangoni AA, Sotgia S, Zinellu A, Carru C, Pintus G, Damiani G, Erre GL, Tommasi S. Methotrexate and cardiovascular prevention: an appraisal of the current evidence. Ther Adv Cardiovasc Dis 2023; 17:17539447231215213. [PMID: 38115784 PMCID: PMC10732001 DOI: 10.1177/17539447231215213] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
New evidence continues to accumulate regarding a significant association between excessive inflammation and dysregulated immunity (local and systemic) and the risk of cardiovascular events in different patient cohorts. Whilst research has sought to identify novel atheroprotective therapies targeting inflammation and immunity, several marketed drugs for rheumatological conditions may serve a similar purpose. One such drug, methotrexate, has been used since 1948 for treating cancer and, more recently, for a wide range of dysimmune conditions. Over the last 30 years, epidemiological and experimental studies have shown that methotrexate is independently associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly in rheumatological patients, and exerts several beneficial effects on vascular homeostasis and blood pressure control. This review article discusses the current challenges with managing cardiovascular risk and the new frontiers offered by drug discovery and drug repurposing targeting inflammation and immunity with a focus on methotrexate. Specifically, the article critically appraises the results of observational, cross-sectional and intervention studies investigating the effects of methotrexate on overall cardiovascular risk and individual risk factors. It also discusses the putative molecular mechanisms underpinning the atheroprotective effects of methotrexate and the practical advantages of using methotrexate in cardiovascular prevention, and highlights future research directions in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arduino A. Mangoni
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Flinders Medical Centre, Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Salvatore Sotgia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy; Quality Control Unit, University Hospital (AOUSS), Sassari, Italy
| | - Angelo Zinellu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy; Quality Control Unit, University Hospital (AOUSS), Sassari, Italy
| | - Ciriaco Carru
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
- Quality Control Unit, University Hospital (AOUSS), Sassari, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Pintus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy; Quality Control Unit, University Hospital (AOUSS), Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Damiani
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Italian Centre of Precision Medicine and Chronic Inflammation, Milan, Italy
| | - Gian Luca Erre
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital (AOUSS) and University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Sara Tommasi
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Flinders Medical Centre, Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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