Apolipoprotein A1 Infusions and Cardiovascular Outcomes after Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular events frequently recur after acute myocardial infarction, and low cholesterol efflux - a process mediated by apolipoprotein A1, which is the main protein in high-density lipoprotein - has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events. CSL112 is human apolipoprotein A1 derived from plasma that increases cholesterol efflux capacity. Whether infusions of CSL112 can reduce the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events after acute myocardial infarction is unclear.

METHODS

We conducted an international, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving patients with acute myocardial infarction, multivessel coronary artery disease, and additional cardiovascular risk factors. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either four weekly infusions of 6 g of CSL112 or matching placebo, with the first infusion administered within 5 days after the first medical contact for the acute myocardial infarction. The primary end point was a composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, or death from cardiovascular causes from randomization through 90 days of follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 18,219 patients were included in the trial (9112 in the CSL112 group and 9107 in the placebo group). There was no significant difference between the groups in the risk of a primary end-point event at 90 days of follow-up (439 patients [4.8%] in the CSL112 group vs. 472 patients [5.2%] in the placebo group; hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.81 to 1.05; P = 0.24), at 180 days of follow-up (622 patients [6.9%] vs. 683 patients [7.6%]; hazard ratio, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.81 to 1.01), or at 365 days of follow-up (885 patients [9.8%] vs. 944 patients [10.5%]; hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.85 to 1.02). The percentage of patients with adverse events was similar in the two groups; a higher number of hypersensitivity events was reported in the CSL112 group.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with acute myocardial infarction, multivessel coronary artery disease, and additional cardiovascular risk factors, four weekly infusions of CSL112 did not result in a lower risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, or death from cardiovascular causes than placebo through 90 days. (Funded by CSL Behring; AEGIS-II ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03473223.).

Obicetrapib as an Adjunct to Stable Statin Therapy in Japanese Subjects: Results from a Randomized Phase 2 Trial

AIMS

Obicetrapib is a highly selective cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor shown to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and apolipoprotein B (apoB), when taken as monotherapy and in combination with ezetimibe on a background of statins, in clinical trials predominantly conducted in Northern European/Caucasian participants. We characterized the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of obicetrapib within an Asian-Pacific region population.

METHODS

This double-blind, randomized, phase 2 trial examined obicetrapib 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/d, compared with placebo, for 8 weeks as an adjunct to stable statin therapy (atorvastatin 10 or 20 mg/d or rosuvastatin 5 or 10 mg/d) in Japanese men and women who had not achieved 2022 Japan Atherosclerosis Society Guidelines and had LDL-C ＞70 mg/dL or non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) ＞100 mg/dL and triglycerides (TG) ＜400 mg/dL. Endpoints included LDL-C, non-HDL-C, HDL-C, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoproteins, TG, steady state pharmacokinetics (PK) in obicetrapib arms, safety, and tolerability.

RESULTS

In the 102 randomized subjects (mean age 64.8 y, 71.6% male), obicetrapib significantly lowered median LDL-C, apoB, and non-HDL-C, and raised HDL-C at all doses; responses in the obicetrapib 10 mg group were -45.8%, -29.7%, -37.0%, and +159%, respectively (all p＜0.0001 vs. placebo). The PK profile demonstrated near complete elimination of drug by 4 weeks. Obicetrapib was well tolerated and there were no adverse safety signals.

CONCLUSIONS

All doses of obicetrapib taken as an adjunct to stable statin therapy significantly lowered atherogenic lipoprotein lipid parameters, showed near complete elimination of drug by 4 weeks, and were safe and well tolerated in a Japanese population, similar to previous studies of obicetrapib conducted in predominantly Caucasian participants.

Evolocumab in paediatric heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia: cognitive function during 80 weeks of open-label extension treatment

AIMS

PCSK9 inhibition intensively lowers low density lipoprotein cholesterol and is well tolerated in adults and paediatric patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH). HAUSER-RCT showed that 24 weeks of treatment with evolocumab in paediatric patients did not affect cognitive function. This study determined the effects of 80 additional weeks of evolocumab treatment on cognitive function in paediatric patients with heterozygous FH.

METHODS AND RESULTS

HAUSER-OLE was an 80-week open-label extension of HAUSER-RCT, a randomized, double-blind, 24-week trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of evolocumab in paediatric patients (ages 10-17 years) with FH. During the OLE, all patients received monthly 420 mg subcutaneous evolocumab injections. Tests of psychomotor function, attention, visual learning, and executive function were administered at baseline and Weeks 24 and 80 of the OLE. Changes over time were analysed descriptively and using analysis of covariance. Cohen's d statistic was used to evaluate the magnitude of treatment effects. Analysis of covariance results indicated no decrease in performance across visits during 80 weeks of evolocumab treatment for Groton Maze Learning, One Card Learning accuracy, Identification speed, or Detection speed (all P > 0.05). Performance on all tasks was similar for those who received placebo or evolocumab in the RCT (all P > 0.05). For all tests, the least square mean differences between patients who received placebo vs. evolocumab in the parent study were trivial (all Cohen's d magnitude < 0.2).

CONCLUSION

In paediatric patients with FH, 80 weeks of open-label evolocumab treatment had no negative impact on cognitive function.

REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02624869.

Obicetrapib: Reversing the Tide of CETP Inhibitor Disappointments

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To discuss the history of cardiovascular outcomes trials of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitors and to describe obicetrapib, a next-generation, oral, once-daily, low-dose CETP inhibitor in late-stage development for dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

RECENT FINDINGS

Phase 1 and 2 trials have evaluated the safety and lipid/lipoprotein effects of obicetrapib as monotherapy, in conjunction with statins, on top of high-intensity statins (HIS), and with ezetimibe on top of HIS. In ROSE2, 10 mg obicetrapib monotherapy and combined with 10 mg ezetimibe, each on top of HIS, significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), apolipoprotein B, total LDL particles, small LDL particles, small, dense LDL-C, and lipoprotein (a), and increased HDL-C. Phase 3 pivotal registration trials including a cardiovascular outcomes trial are underway. Obicetrapib has an excellent safety and tolerability profile and robustly lowers atherogenic lipoproteins and raises HDL-C. As such, obicetrapib may be a promising agent for the treatment of ASCVD.

The evolving role of cholesteryl ester transfer protein inhibition beyond cardiovascular disease

The main role of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) is the transfer of cholesteryl esters and triglycerides between high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles and triglyceride-rich lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles. There is a long history of investigations regarding the inhibition of CETP as a target for reducing major adverse cardiovascular events. Initially, the potential effect on cardiovascular events of CETP inhibitors was hypothesized to be mediated by their ability to increase HDL cholesterol, but, based on evidence from anacetrapib and the newest CETP inhibitor, obicetrapib, it is now understood to be primarily due to reducing LDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B. Nevertheless, evidence is also mounting that other roles of HDL, including its promotion of cholesterol efflux, as well as its apolipoprotein composition and anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-diabetic properties, may play important roles in several diseases beyond cardiovascular disease, including, but not limited to, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and sepsis. Furthermore, although Mendelian randomization analyses suggested that higher HDL cholesterol is associated with increased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), excess risk of AMD was absent in all CETP inhibitor randomized controlled trial data comprising over 70,000 patients. In fact, certain HDL subclasses may, in contrast, be beneficial for treating the retinal cholesterol accumulation that occurs with AMD. This review describes the latest biological evidence regarding the relationship between HDL and CETP inhibition for Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, sepsis, and AMD.

Intima-media thickness at the near or far wall of the common carotid artery in cardiovascular risk assessment

Aims

Current guidelines recommend measuring carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) at the far wall of the common carotid artery (CCA). We aimed to precisely quantify associations of near vs. far wall CCA-IMT with the risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD, defined as coronary heart disease or stroke) and their added predictive values.

Methods and results

We analysed individual records of 41 941 participants from 16 prospective studies in the Proof-ATHERO consortium {mean age 61 years [standard deviation (SD) = 11]; 53% female; 16% prior CVD}. Mean baseline values of near and far wall CCA-IMT were 0.83 (SD = 0.28) and 0.82 (SD = 0.27) mm, differed by a mean of 0.02 mm (95% limits of agreement: -0.40 to 0.43), and were moderately correlated [r = 0.44; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.39-0.49). Over a median follow-up of 9.3 years, we recorded 10 423 CVD events. We pooled study-specific hazard ratios for CVD using random-effects meta-analysis. Near and far wall CCA-IMT values were approximately linearly associated with CVD risk. The respective hazard ratios per SD higher value were 1.18 (95% CI: 1.14-1.22; I² = 30.7%) and 1.20 (1.18-1.23; I² = 5.3%) when adjusted for age, sex, and prior CVD and 1.09 (1.07-1.12; I² = 8.4%) and 1.14 (1.12-1.16; I²=1.3%) upon multivariable adjustment (all P < 0.001). Assessing CCA-IMT at both walls provided a greater C-index improvement than assessing CCA-IMT at one wall only [+0.0046 vs. +0.0023 for near (P < 0.001), +0.0037 for far wall (P = 0.006)].

Conclusions

The associations of near and far wall CCA-IMT with incident CVD were positive, approximately linear, and similarly strong. Improvement in risk discrimination was highest when CCA-IMT was measured at both walls.

Lipoprotein(a) and carotid intima-media thickness in children with familial hypercholesterolaemia in the Netherlands: a 20-year follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Elevated lipoprotein(a) and familial hypercholesterolaemia are both independent risk conditions for cardiovascular disease. Although signs of atherosclerosis can be observed in children with familial hypercholesterolaemia, it is unknown whether elevated lipoprotein(a) is an additional risk factor for atherosclerosis in these young patients. Therefore, we aimed to assess the contribution of lipoprotein(a) concentrations to arterial wall thickening (as measured by carotid intima-media thickness) in children with familial hypercholesterolaemia who were followed up into adulthood.

METHODS

We conducted a 20-year follow-up study of 214 children (aged 8-18 years) with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia who were randomly assigned in a statin trial in Amsterdam (Netherlands) between Dec 7, 1997, and Oct 4, 1999. At baseline, and at 2, 10, and 20 years thereafter, blood samples were taken and carotid intima-media thickness was measured. Linear mixed-effects models were used to evaluate the association between lipoprotein(a) and carotid intima-media thickness during follow-up. We adjusted for sex, age, corrected LDL-cholesterol, statin use, and BMI.

FINDINGS

Our study population comprised 200 children who had a carotid intima-media thickness measurement and a measured lipoprotein(a) concentration from at least one visit available. Mean age at baseline was 13·0 years (SD 2·9), 106 (53%) children were male, and 94 (47%) were female. At baseline, median lipoprotein(a) concentration was 18·5 nmol/L (IQR 8·7-35·5) and mean carotid intima-media thickness was 0·4465 mm (SD 0·0496). During follow-up, higher lipoprotein(a) concentrations contributed significantly to progression of carotid intima-media thickness (β adjusted 0·0073 mm per 50 nmol/L increase in lipoprotein(a) [95% CI 0·0013-0·0132]; p=0·017).

INTERPRETATION

Our findings suggest that lipoprotein(a) concentrations contribute significantly to arterial wall thickening in children with familial hypercholesterolaemia who were followed-up until adulthood, suggesting that lipoprotein(a) is an independent and additional risk factor for early atherosclerosis in those already at increased risk. Lipoprotein(a) measurement in young patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia is crucial to identify those at potentially highest risk for cardiovascular disease.

FUNDING

Silence Therapeutics.

Bempedoic Acid for Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Events in Statin-Intolerant Patients

Importance

The effects of bempedoic acid on cardiovascular outcomes in statin-intolerant patients without a prior cardiovascular event (primary prevention) have not been fully described.

Objective

To determine the effects of bempedoic acid on cardiovascular outcomes in primary prevention patients.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This masked, randomized clinical trial enrolled 13 970 statin-intolerant patients (enrollment December 2016 to August 2019 at 1250 centers in 32 countries), including 4206 primary prevention patients.

Interventions

Participants were randomized to oral bempedoic acid, 180 mg daily (n = 2100), or matching placebo (n = 2106).

Main Outcome Measures

The primary efficacy measure was the time from randomization to the first occurrence of any component of a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization.

Results

Mean participant age was 68 years, 59% were female, and 66% had diabetes. From a mean baseline of 142.2 mg/dL, compared with placebo, bempedoic acid reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 30.2 mg/dL (21.3%) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels by 0.56 mg/L (21.5%), from a median baseline of 2.4 mg/L. Follow-up for a median of 39.9 months was associated with a significant risk reduction for the primary end point (111 events [5.3%] vs 161 events [7.6%]; adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.70 [95% CI, 0.55-0.89]; P = .002) and key secondary end points, including the composite of cardiovascular death, MI, or stroke (83 events [4.0%] vs 134 events [6.4%]; HR, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.48-0.84]; P < .001); MI (29 events [1.4%] vs 47 events [2.2%]; HR, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.39-0.98]); cardiovascular death (37 events [1.8%] vs 65 events [3.1%]; HR, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.41-0.92]); and all-cause mortality (75 events [3.6%] vs 109 events [5.2%]; HR, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.54-0.98]). There was no significant effect on stroke or coronary revascularization. Adverse effects with bempedoic acid included a higher incidence of gout (2.6% vs 2.0%), cholelithiasis (2.5% vs 1.1%), and increases in serum creatinine, uric acid, and hepatic enzyme levels.

Conclusions

In a subgroup of high-risk primary prevention patients, bempedoic acid treatment was associated with reduced major cardiovascular events.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02993406.

The FGF21 analog pegozafermin in severe hypertriglyceridemia: a randomized phase 2 trial

Pegozafermin, a long-acting glycopegylated analog of human fibroblast growth factor 21, is in development for the treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia (SHTG) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Here we report the results of a phase 2, double-blind, randomized, five-arm trial testing pegozafermin at four different doses (n = 67; 52 male) versus placebo (n = 18; 12 male) for 8 weeks in patients with SHTG (triglycerides (TGs), ≥500 mg dl-1 and ≤2,000 mg dl-1). Treated patients showed a significant reduction in median TGs for the pooled pegozafermin group versus placebo (57.3% versus 11.9%, difference versus placebo -43.7%, 95% confidence interval (CI): -57.1%, -30.3%; P < 0.001), meeting the primary endpoint of the trial. Reductions in median TGs ranged from 36.4% to 63.4% across all treatment arms and were consistent regardless of background lipid-lowering therapy. Results for secondary endpoints included significant decreases in mean apolipoprotein B and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations (-10.5% and -18.3% for pooled doses compared to 1.1% and -0.6% for placebo (95% CI: -21.5%, -2.0%; P = 0.019 and 95% CI: -30.7%, -5.1%; P = 0.007, respectively), as well as a significant decrease in liver fat fraction for pooled treatment (n = 17) versus placebo (n = 6; -42.2% pooled pegozafermin, -8.3% placebo; 95% CI: -60.9%, -8.7%; P = 0.012), as assessed in a magnetic resonance imaging sub-study. No serious adverse events were observed to be related to the study drug. If these results are confirmed in a phase 3 trial, pegozafermin could be a promising treatment for SHTG (ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT0441186).

New Approaches for Targeting PCSK9: Small-Interfering Ribonucleic Acid and Genome Editing

There is overwhelming clinical and genetic evidence supporting the concept that low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol should be as low as possible for as long as possible in patients at very high cardiovascular risk. Despite the wide availability of effective lipid-lowering therapies, the majority of patients still fail to reach guideline-based lipid goals. Advances in novel approaches targeting PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) through small-interfering RNA and genome editing hold the potential to bridge this gap, by offering long-acting alternatives, which may overcome adherence and other challenges in the current chronic care model. In this review, we discuss the history of targeting PCSK9 with the use of mRNA and small-interfering ribonucleic acid. We also shed light on targeting PCSK9 with genome editing, including discussion of the VERVE-101 clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-base editing medicine currently being evaluated in a clinical trial and others in development.

Bempedoic Acid and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Statin-Intolerant Patients

BACKGROUND

Bempedoic acid, an ATP citrate lyase inhibitor, reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and is associated with a low incidence of muscle-related adverse events; its effects on cardiovascular outcomes remain uncertain.

METHODS

We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving patients who were unable or unwilling to take statins owing to unacceptable adverse effects ("statin-intolerant" patients) and had, or were at high risk for, cardiovascular disease. The patients were assigned to receive oral bempedoic acid, 180 mg daily, or placebo. The primary end point was a four-component composite of major adverse cardiovascular events, defined as death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization.

RESULTS

A total of 13,970 patients underwent randomization; 6992 were assigned to the bempedoic acid group and 6978 to the placebo group. The median duration of follow-up was 40.6 months. The mean LDL cholesterol level at baseline was 139.0 mg per deciliter in both groups, and after 6 months, the reduction in the level was greater with bempedoic acid than with placebo by 29.2 mg per deciliter; the observed difference in the percent reductions was 21.1 percentage points in favor of bempedoic acid. The incidence of a primary end-point event was significantly lower with bempedoic acid than with placebo (819 patients [11.7%] vs. 927 [13.3%]; hazard ratio, 0.87; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.79 to 0.96; P = 0.004), as were the incidences of a composite of death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal stroke, or nonfatal myocardial infarction (575 [8.2%] vs. 663 [9.5%]; hazard ratio, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.76 to 0.96; P = 0.006); fatal or nonfatal myocardial infarction (261 [3.7%] vs. 334 [4.8%]; hazard ratio, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.66 to 0.91; P = 0.002); and coronary revascularization (435 [6.2%] vs. 529 [7.6%]; hazard ratio, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.72 to 0.92; P = 0.001). Bempedoic acid had no significant effects on fatal or nonfatal stroke, death from cardiovascular causes, and death from any cause. The incidences of gout and cholelithiasis were higher with bempedoic acid than with placebo (3.1% vs. 2.1% and 2.2% vs. 1.2%, respectively), as were the incidences of small increases in serum creatinine, uric acid, and hepatic-enzyme levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Among statin-intolerant patients, treatment with bempedoic acid was associated with a lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization). (Funded by Esperion Therapeutics; CLEAR Outcomes ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02993406.).

Adherence to statin treatment in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia: A dynamic prediction model

BACKGROUND

Statins are the primary therapy in patient with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). Non-adherence to statin therapy is associated with increased cardiovascular risk.

OBJECTIVE

We constructed a dynamic prediction model to predict statin adherence for an individual HeFH patient for each upcoming statin prescription.

METHODS

All patients with HeFH, identified by the Dutch Familial Hypercholesterolemia screening program between 1994 and 2014, were eligible. National pharmacy records dated between 1995 and 2015 were linked. We developed a dynamic prediction model that estimates the probability of statin adherence (defined as proportion of days covered >80%) for an upcoming prescription using a mixed effect logistic regression model. Static and dynamic patient-specific predictors, as well as data on a patient's adherence to past prescriptions were included. The model with the lowest AIC (Akaike Information Criterion) value was selected.

RESULTS

We included 1094 patients for whom 21,171 times a statin was prescribed. Based on the model with the lowest AIC, age at HeFH diagnosis, history of cardiovascular event, time since HeFH diagnosis and duration of the next statin prescription contributed to an increased adherence, while adherence decreased with higher untreated LDL-C levels and higher intensity of statin therapy. The dynamic prediction model showed an area under the curve of 0.63 at HeFH diagnosis, which increased to 0.85 after six years of treatment.

CONCLUSION

This dynamic prediction model enables clinicians to identify HeFH patients at risk for non-adherence during statin treatment. These patients can be offered timely interventions to improve adherence and further reduce cardiovascular risk.

Can we revive CETP-inhibitors for the prevention of cardiovascular disease?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review recent developments in the field of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibition from clinical trials and genomic analyses which have the potential to impact future clinical programs.

RECENT FINDINGS

CETP plays an important role in remodelling of lipoproteins. A large body of evidence suggests that the presence of low CETP activity should have favourable effects on lipid profiles and cardiovascular risk. However, a number of clinical development programs of pharmacological CETP inhibitors have been disappointing with reports of toxicity and clinical futility. These findings have led many to consider abandoning CETP inhibition as a potential strategy for cardiovascular prevention. However, recent observations from genomic analyses and post hoc observations of prior clinical trials have given greater insights into the potential relationship between CETP inhibition and cardiovascular risk. This has highlighted the importance of lowering levels of atherogenic lipoproteins.

SUMMARY

These findings provide a pathway for ongoing clinical development of CETP inhibitors, where the potential to play an important role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease may still be possible. The lessons learned and pathway forward for new CETP inhibitors will be reviewed.

Comparison of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol equations in patients with dyslipidaemia receiving cholesterol ester transfer protein inhibition

AIMS

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) lowering is imperative in cardiovascular disease prevention. We aimed to compare accuracy of three clinically-implemented LDL-C equations in a clinical trial of cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibition.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Men and women aged 18-75 years with dyslipidaemia were recruited from 17 sites in the Netherlands and Denmark. Patients were randomly assigned to one of nine groups using various combinations of the CETP inhibitor TA-8995 (obicetrapib), statin therapy, and placebo. In pooled measurements over 12 weeks, we calculated LDL-C by the Friedewald, Martin/Hopkins, and Sampson equations, and compared values with preparative ultracentrifugation (PUC) LDL-C overall and with a special interest in the low LDL-C/high triglycerides subgroup. There were 242 patients contributing 921 observations. Overall median LDL-C differences between estimates and PUC were small: Friedewald, 0.00 (25th, 75th: -0.10, 0.08) mmol/L [0 (-4, 3) mg/dL]; Martin/Hopkins, 0.02 (-0.08, 0.10) mmol/L [1 (-3, 4) mg/dL]; and Sampson, 0.05 (-0.03, 0.15) mmol/L [2 (-1, 6) mg/dL]. In the subgroup with estimated LDL-C <1.8 mmol/L (<70 mg/dL) and triglycerides 1.7-4.5 mmol/L (150-399 mg/dL), the Friedewald equation underestimated LDL-C with a median difference versus PUC of -0.25 (-0.33, -0.10) mmol/L [-10 (-13, -4) mg/dL], whereas the median difference by Martin/Hopkins was 0.00 (-0.08, 0.10) mmol/L [0 (-3, 4) mg/dL] and by Sampson was -0.06 (-0.13, 0.00) mmol/L [-2 (-5, 0) mg/dL]. In this subgroup, the proportion of LDL-C observations <1.8 mmol/L (<70 mg/dL) that were correctly classified compared with PUC was 71.4% by Friedewald vs. 100.0% by Martin/Hopkins and 93.1% by Sampson.

CONCLUSION

In European patients with dyslipidaemia receiving a CETP inhibitor, we found improved LDL-C accuracy using contemporary equations vs. the Friedewald equation, and the greatest accuracy was observed with the Martin/Hopkins equation.

REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01970215.

Evolocumab treatment reduces carotid intima-media thickness in paediatric patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia

Background

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is characterised by high plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and increased risk of premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Previous studies show that carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) is increased in children with FH, an indicator of early ASCVD. Add-on treatment with the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor, evolocumab, substantially reduced atherosclerotic lipid levels in children with heterozygous FH (HeFH) and was safe and well tolerated. The effect of evolocumab on cIMT in paediatric patients (pts) has not been investigated.

Purpose

To investigate the effect of evolocumab treatment on cIMT progression in paediatric pts with HeFH.

Methods

HAUSER-RCT was a multicenter, randomised, placebo-controlled study in which paediatric FH pts (ages 10–17 years) received monthly subcutaneous injections of evolocumab 420 mg or placebo. Of 157 pts, 150 continued to an open-label extension study (HAUSER-OLE) during which all received up to 80 weeks of monthly evolocumab 420 mg on top of stable background statin therapy. cIMT was measured by B-mode ultrasound scanning at baseline, week 24 of the RCT, and weeks 24, 48, and 80 of the OLE. cIMT was measured on anterior, lateral, and posterior imaging angles of the right and left common carotid artery. Mean thickness at each visit and mean changes from baseline were summarised by treatment received during the RCT and artery location. In addition, the largest measurements (anterior, lateral, or posterior) from a patient's left and right carotid artery were averaged to calculate a summary score.

Results

Mean baseline cIMT summary score was 0.568 mm (SD=0.06) for 46 placebo pts and 0.586 mm (SD=0.06) for 82 evolocumab pts. During the RCT, 37 placebo pts had a mean increase of 0.006 mm (SD=0.05) from baseline to week 24; in contrast, 76 evolocumab pts had a mean decrease of 0.003 mm (SD=0.05). Although this treatment group difference was not statistically significant (P=0.403), the pattern of increased cIMT for placebo and decreased cIMT for evolocumab was consistent across artery locations (Table). During the OLE, for pts who initially received placebo, mean cIMT summary score decreased by 0.019 mm (SD=0.04, n=34) from baseline to week 80 (P=0.007) (Figure). Pts who received evolocumab in both the RCT and OLE showed continued improvement during the OLE; at week 80, mean cIMT summary score decreased by 0.012 mm (SD=0.05, n=59) from baseline (P=0.067). For all pts at week 80 (n=128), the mean decrease in LDL-C from baseline was 35.3% (SD=28.0).

Conclusions

Open-label evolocumab treatment for up to 80 weeks led to reductions in mean cIMT. In this small sample of pts with FH, the data suggest that the addition of PCSK9 inhibition to background lipid-lowering therapy has the potential to reduce the risk of ASCVD progression and future cardiovascular events in this vulnerable paediatric population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Amgen, Inc.

Comparison of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol equations in patients with dyslipidaemia receiving cholesterol ester transfer protein inhibition

Background

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) lowering is imperative in cardiovascular disease prevention. Effectively translating the evidence for LDL-C lowering to maximize clinical and public health benefits depends on the availability of accurate LDL-C results from clinical laboratories to guide therapy. Furthermore, prior work has raised the possibility that cholesterol esterase transfer protein (CETP) inhibition could interfere with accurate assessment of LDL-C.

Purpose

We aimed to compare accuracy of three clinically implemented LDL-C equations in a clinical trial of CETP inhibition.

Methods

Men and women aged 18–75 years with dyslipidaemia were recruited from 17 sites in the Netherlands and Denmark. Patients were randomly assigned to one of nine groups using various combinations of the CETP inhibitor TA-8995, statin therapy, and placebo. In pooled measurements over 12 weeks, we calculated LDL-C by the Friedewald, Martin/Hopkins, and Sampson equations, and compared values with preparative ultracentrifugation (PUC) LDL-C as the reference measure (also known as “beta quantification”). Based on prior literature and dyslipidaemia guidelines, we examined correct classifications across the LDL-C 1.81 mmol/L cutpoint in the subgroup of patients with triglycerides of 1.69–4.51 mmol/L.

Results

The analysis included 242 patients contributing 921 observations. The full distributions of differences between LDL-C estimates and PUC are shown in Figure 1. Overall median LDL-C differences between estimates and PUC were small: Friedewald, 0.00 (25th, 75th: −0.10, 0.08) mmol/L; Martin/Hopkins, 0.02 (−0.08, 0.10) mmol/L; and Sampson, 0.05 (−0.03, 0.15) mmol/L. In the subgroup with estimated LDL-C &lt;1.81 mmol/L and triglycerides 1.69–4.51 mmol/L, the Friedewald equation underestimated LDL-C with a median difference versus PUC of −0.25 (−0.33, −0.10) mmol/L, whereas the Martin/Hopkins equation corrected this issue with a median difference of 0.00 (−0.08, 0.10) mmol/L and the Sampson equation showed tendency towards underestimation with a median difference of −0.06 (−0.13, 0.00) mmol/L. In patients with triglyceride levels of 1.69–4.51 mmol/L, Figure 2 shows the proportion of LDL-C levels classified by the equations as &lt; or ≥1.81 mmol/L that were correctly classified when compared with PUC. All three equations showed &gt;95% accuracy when estimated LDL-C levels were ≥1.81 mmol/L. However, the proportion of LDL-C observations &lt;1.81 mmol/L that were correctly classified compared with PUC was 71.4% by Friedewald versus 100.0% by Martin/Hopkins and 93.1% by Sampson.

Conclusion

In Europeans with dyslipidaemia, our analysis shows improved accuracy in LDL-C when using contemporary LDL-C equations over the Friedewald equation, particularly when using the Martin/Hopkins equation. High levels of accuracy with the Martin/Hopkins equation were seen in individuals treated with CETP inhibition and even in the context of low LDL-C and high triglyceride levels.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Dezima and NewAmsterdam Pharma

Paediatric patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia treated with evolocumab for 80 weeks (HAUSER-OLE): a single-arm, multicentre, open-label extension of HAUSER-RCT

BACKGROUND

The HAUSER-RCT study showed that 24 weeks of evolocumab (a proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 [PCSK9] inhibitor) in paediatric patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia was safe and improved lipid parameters compared to placebo. Here, we aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of evolocumab in this population for an additional 80 weeks.

METHODS

HAUSER-OLE was an 80-week, single-arm, open-label extension of HAUSER-RCT, a randomised controlled trial, and was conducted at 46 centres in 23 countries. Paediatric patients aged 10-17 years with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia who completed 24 weeks of monthly treatment with subcutaneously administered placebo or 420 mg evolocumab in HAUSER-RCT with no serious treatment-emergent adverse events were eligible to enrol in HAUSER-OLE. All patients received open-label subcutaneous evolocumab 420 mg monthly with background statins with or without ezetimibe for 80 additional weeks. The primary endpoint was treatment-emergent adverse events. Efficacy was evaluated by changes in lipids from the baseline of HAUSER-RCT to the end of HAUSER-OLE (104 weeks). This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02624869) and is now completed.

FINDINGS

Between Sept 10, 2016, and Nov 25, 2019, 157 patients were enrolled in HAUSER-RCT and received randomised treatment; 150 continued to HAUSER-OLE, received evolocumab treatment, and were included in the full analysis set, presented here. 146 (97%) of 150 patients completed the open-label extension. The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events in HAUSER-OLE was 70% (105 of 150). Overall, the most common treatment-emergent adverse events were nasopharyngitis (22 [15%] of 150), headache (14 [9%]), and influenza-like illness (13 [9%]). Serious treatment-emergent adverse events occurred in four (3%) of 150 patients (perforated appendicitis and peritonitis, wrist fracture, anorexia nervosa, and headache); none was considered related to evolocumab. No treatment-emergent adverse events led to treatment discontinuation. At week 80, the mean percentage change from baseline in LDL cholesterol was -35·3% (SD 28·0).

INTERPRETATION

After 80 weeks of treatment, evolocumab was safe, well tolerated, and led to sustained reductions in LDL cholesterol in paediatric patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia. When lipid goals cannot be achieved with conventional treatments, evolocumab is an effective add-on therapy in paediatric patients.

FUNDING

Amgen.

TRANSLATIONS

For the French, Spanish, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian and Dutch translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

The effect of CETP inhibitors on new-onset diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite the increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), limited pharmacologic options are available for prevention. Cholesteryl ester transfer protein inhibitors (CETPis) have been studied primarily as a therapy to reduce cardiovascular disease, but have also been shown to reduce new-onset diabetes. As new trial data have become available, this meta-analysis examines the effect of CETP inhibitors on new-onset diabetes and related glycaemic measures.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases (all articles until 4 March, 2021) for randomised controlled trials (RCT) ≥1-year duration, with at least 500 participants, comparing CETPi to placebo, and that reported data on new-onset diabetes or related glycaemic measures [haemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), fasting plasma glucose, insulin, Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR)]. A fixed effects meta-analysis model was applied to all eligible studies to quantify the effect of CETPi therapy on new-onset diabetes. Four RCTs (n = 75 102) were eligible for quantitative analysis of the effect of CETPi on new-onset diabetes. CETPis were found to significantly decrease the risk of new-onset diabetes by 16% (RR: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.78, 0.91; P < 0.001), with low between-trial heterogeneity (I2 = 4.1%). Glycaemic measures were also significantly improved or trended towards improvement in those with and without diabetes across most trials.

CONCLUSION

Although RCTs have shown mixed results regarding the impact of CETPi on cardiovascular disease, they have shown a consistent reduction in the risk of new-onset diabetes with CETPi therapy. Future trials of CETPis and potentially other HDL-raising agents should therefore specify new-onset diabetes and reversal of existing T2DM as secondary endpoints.

Pharmacotherapy for children with elevated levels of lipoprotein(a): future directions

INTRODUCTION

Elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). With the advent of the antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeted at LPA, the gene encoding apolipoprotein(a), that are highly effective for lowering Lp(a) levels, this risk factor might be managed in the near future. Given that Lp(a) levels are mostly genetically determined and once elevated, present from early age, we have evaluated future directions for the treatment of children with high Lp(a) levels.

AREAS COVERED

In the current review, we discuss different pharmacological treatments in clinical development and provide an in-depth overview of the effects of ASOs and siRNAs targeted at LPA.

EXPERT OPINION

Since high Lp(a) is an important risk factor for ASCVD and given the promising effects of both ASOs and siRNAs targeted at apo(a), there is an urgent need for well-designed prospective studies to assess the impact of elevated Lp(a) in childhood. If the Lp(a)-hypothesis is confirmed in adults, and also in children, the rationale might arise for treating children with high Lp(a) levels. However, we feel that this should be limited to children with the highest cardiovascular risk including familial hypercholesterolemia and potentially pediatric stroke.

Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein Inhibition Reduces Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events by Lowering Apolipoprotein B Levels

Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) facilitates the exchange of cholesteryl esters and triglycerides (TG) between high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles and TG-rich, apolipoprotein (apo) B-containing particles. Initially, these compounds were developed to raise plasma HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, a mechanism that was previously thought to lower the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). More recently, the focus changed and the use of pharmacologic CETP inhibitors to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), non-HDL-C and apoB concentrations became supported by several lines of evidence from animal models, observational investigations, randomized controlled trials and Mendelian randomization studies. Furthermore, a cardiovascular outcome trial of anacetrapib demonstrated that CETP inhibition significantly reduced the risk of major coronary events in patients with ASCVD in a manner directly proportional to the substantial reduction in LDL-C and apoB. These data have dramatically shifted the attention on CETP away from raising HDL-C instead to lowering apoB-containing lipoproteins, which is relevant since the newest CETP inhibitor, obicetrapib, reduces LDL-C by up to 51% and apoB by up to 30% when taken in combination with a high-intensity statin. An ongoing cardiovascular outcome trial of obicetrapib in patients with ASCVD is expected to provide further evidence of the ability of CETP inhibitors to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events by lowering apoB. The purpose of the present review is to provide an up-to-date understanding of CETP inhibition and its relationship to ASCVD risk reduction.

Clinical Significance of Serum Albumin and Implications of FcRn Inhibitor Treatment in IgG-Mediated Autoimmune Disorders

Serum albumin (SA), the most abundant soluble protein in the body, maintains plasma oncotic pressure and regulates the distribution of vascular fluid and has a range of other important functions. The goals of this review are to expand clinical knowledge regarding the functions of SA, elucidate effects of dysregulated SA concentration, and discuss the clinical relevance of hypoalbuminemia resulting from various diseases. We discuss potential repercussions of SA dysregulation on cholesterol levels, liver function, and other processes that rely on its homeostasis, as decreased SA concentration has been shown to be associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease, hyperlipidemia, and mortality. We describe the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of SA, as well as its ability to bind and transport a plethora of endogenous and exogenous molecules. SA is the primary serum protein involved in binding and transport of drugs and as such has the potential to affect, or be affected by, certain medications. Of current relevance are antibody-based inhibitors of the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), several of which are under clinical development to treat immunoglobulin G (IgG)-mediated autoimmune disorders; some have been shown to decrease SA concentration. FcRn acts as a homeostatic regulator of SA by rescuing it, as well as IgG, from intracellular degradation via a common cellular recycling mechanism. Greater clinical understanding of the multifunctional nature of SA and the potential clinical impact of decreased SA are needed; in particular, the potential for certain treatments to reduce SA concentration, which may affect efficacy and toxicity of medications and disease progression.

A structurally engineered fatty acid, icosabutate, suppresses liver inflammation and fibrosis in NASH

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Although long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (LCn-3FAs) regulate inflammatory pathways of relevance to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), their susceptibility to peroxidation may limit their therapeutic potential. We compared the metabolism of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) with an engineered EPA derivative (icosabutate) in human hepatocytes in vitro and their effects on hepatic glutathione metabolism, oxidised lipids, inflammation, and fibrosis in a dietary mouse model of NASH, and in patients prone to fatty liver disease.

METHODS

Oxidation rates and cellular partitioning of EPA and icosabutate were compared in primary human hepatocytes. Comparative effects of delayed treatment with either low- (56 mg/kg) or high-dose (112 mg/kg) icosabutate were compared with EPA (91 mg/kg) or a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist in a choline-deficient (CD), L-amino acid-defined NASH mouse model. To assess the translational potential of these findings, effects on elevated liver enzymes and fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) score were assessed in overweight, hyperlipidaemic patients at an increased risk of NASH.

RESULTS

In contrast to EPA, icosabutate resisted oxidation and incorporation into hepatocytes. Icosabutate also reduced inflammation and fibrosis in conjunction with a reversal of CD diet-induced changes in the hepatic lipidome. EPA had minimal effect on any parameter and even worsened fibrosis in association with depletion of hepatic glutathione. In dyslipidaemic patients at risk of NASH, icosabutate rapidly normalised elevated plasma ALT, GGT and AST and reduced FIB-4 in patients with elevated ALT and/or AST.

CONCLUSION

Icosabutate does not accumulate in hepatocytes and confers beneficial effects on hepatic oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis in mice. In conjunction with reductions in markers of liver injury in hyperlipidaemic patients, these findings suggest that structural engineering of LCn-3FAs offers a novel approach for the treatment of NASH.

LAY SUMMARY

Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids are involved in multiple pathways regulating hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, but their susceptibility to peroxidation and use as an energy source may limit their clinical efficacy. Herein, we show that a structurally modified omega-3 fatty acid, icosabutate, overcame these challenges and had markedly improved antifibrotic efficacy in a mouse model of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. A hepatoprotective effect of icosabutate was also observed in patients with elevated circulating lipids, in whom it led to rapid reductions in markers of liver injury.

A Head-to-Head Comparison of a Free Fatty Acid Formulation of Omega-3 Pentaenoic Acids Versus Icosapent Ethyl in Adults With Hypertriglyceridemia: The ENHANCE-IT Study

Background MAT9001 is an omega-3 free fatty acid (FFA) formulation containing mainly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA). Compared with icosapent ethyl (EPA-ethyl esters [EE]), EPA+DPA-FFA previously showed enhanced triglyceride lowering and higher plasma EPA when both were administered once daily with a very-low fat diet. This trial compared pharmacodynamic responses and plasma omega-3 levels following twice daily dosing, with meals, of EPA+DPA-FFA and EPA-EE in hypertriglyceridemic subjects consuming a Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes diet. Methods and Results This open-label, randomized, 2-way crossover trial, with 28-day treatment periods separated by ≥28-day washout, was conducted at 8 US centers and included 100 subjects with fasting triglycerides 1.70 to 5.64 mmol/L (150-499 mg/dL) (median 2.31 mmol/L [204 mg/dL]; 57% women, average age 60.3 years). The primary end point was least squares geometric mean percent change from baseline plasma triglycerides. In the 94 subjects with analyzable data for both treatment periods, EPA+DPA-FFA and EPA-EE reduced least squares geometric mean triglycerides from baseline: 20.9% and 18.3%, respectively (P=not significant). EPA+DPA-FFA reduced least squares geometric mean high-sensitivity C-reactive protein by 5.8%; EPA-EE increased high-sensitivity C-reactive protein by 8.5% (P=0.034). EPA+DPA-FFA increased least squares geometric mean plasma EPA, DPA, and total omega-3 (EPA+docosahexaenoic acid+DPA) concentrations by 848%, 177%, and 205%, respectively, compared with corresponding changes with EPA-EE of 692%, 140%, and 165% (all P<0.001). EPA+DPA-FFA increased docosahexaenoic acid by 1.7%; EPA-EE decreased docosahexaenoic acid by 3.3% (P=0.011). Lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein responses did not differ between treatments. Conclusions EPA+DPA-FFA raised plasma EPA, DPA, and total omega-3 significantly more than did EPA-EE. EPA+DPA-FFA also reduced triglycerides and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein without increasing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT04177680.

CETP-inhibitors: from HDL-C to LDL-C lowering agents?

Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) is a liver-synthesized glycoprotein whose main functions are facilitating transfer of both cholesteryl esters from high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles to apolipoprotein B (apoB)-containing particles as well as transfer of triglycerides from apoB-containing particles to HDL particles. Novel crystallographic data have shown that CETP exchanges lipids in the circulation by a dual molecular mechanism. Recently, it has been suggested that the atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) benefit from CETP inhibition is the consequence of the achieved low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and apoB reduction, rather than through the HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) increase. The use of CETP inhibitors is supported by genetic evidence from Mendelian randomization studies, showing that LDL-C lowering by CETP gene variants achieves equal ASCVD risk reduction as LDL-C lowering through gene proxies for statins, ezetimibe, and proprotein convertase subtilisin–kexin Type 9 inhibitors. Although first-generation CETP inhibitors (torcetrapib, dalcetrapib) were mainly raising HDL-C or had off-target effects, next generation CETP inhibitors (anacetrapib, evacetrapib) were also effective in reducing LDL-C and apoB and have been proven safe. Anacetrapib was the first CETP inhibitor to be proven effective in reducing ASCVD risk. In addition, CETP inhibitors have been shown to lower the risk of new-onset diabetes, improve glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity. The newest-generation CETP inhibitor obicetrapib, specifically designed to lower LDL-C and apoB, has achieved significant reductions of LDL-C up to 45%. Obicetrapib, about to enter phase III development, could become the first CETP inhibitor as add-on therapy for patients not reaching their guideline LDL-C targets.

Beyond the Usual Suspects: Expanding on Mutations and Detection for Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Introduction: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a highly prevalent condition, predisposing individuals to premature cardiovascular disease and with a genetic basis more complex than initially thought. Advances in molecular technologies have provided novel insights into the role of next-generation-sequencing, the assessment and classification of newly found variants, the complex genotype-phenotype correlation, and the position of FH in the context of other dyslipidaemias.Areas covered: Understanding the scope of genetic determinants of FH has expanded substantially. This article reviews the current literature on the complexity that comes with this incremental knowledge and highlights the added value of genetic testing as an addition to phenotypic diagnosis of FH. Moreover, we discuss the broad genetic basis of FH, with a focus on the three main FH genes, but we also pay attention to polygenic hypercholesterolemia as well as minor and modulator genes involved in FH.Expert opinion: Both the availability and the need for genetic analysis of FH are on the rise as costs of sequencing continue to drop and new therapies require a genetic diagnosis for reimbursement. However, greater use of genetic testing requires more education of healthcare professionals, since molecular technologies will allow for rapid and accurate evaluation of large numbers of detected variants.

Association Between Achieved ω-3 Fatty Acid Levels and Major Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients With High Cardiovascular Risk: A Secondary Analysis of the STRENGTH Trial

IMPORTANCE

In patients treated with ω-3 fatty acids, it remains uncertain whether achieved levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are associated with cardiovascular outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between plasma levels of EPA and DHA and cardiovascular outcomes in a trial of ω-3 fatty acids compared with corn oil placebo.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A double-blind, multicenter trial enrolled patients at high cardiovascular risk with elevated triglyceride levels and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol at 675 centers (enrollment from October 30, 2014, to June 14, 2017; study termination January 8, 2020; last visit May 14, 2020).

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomized to receive 4 g daily of ω-3 carboxylic acid (CA) or an inert comparator, corn oil.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary prespecified end point was a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, coronary revascularization, or unstable angina requiring hospitalization. The primary outcome measure was the hazard ratio, adjusted for baseline characteristics, for patients treated with the ω-3 CA compared with corn oil for the top tertile of achieved EPA and DHA plasma levels 12 months after randomization.

RESULTS

Of the 13 078 total participants, 6539 (50%) were randomized to receive ω-3 CA and 6539 (50%) randomized to corn oil. ω-3 Fatty acid levels were available at both baseline and 12 months after randomization in 10 382 participants (5175 ω-3 CA patients [49.8%] and 5207 corn oil-treated patients [50.2%]; mean [SD] age, 62.5 [8.9] years, 3588 [34.6%] were women, 9025 [86.9%] were White, and 7285 [70.2%] had type 2 diabetes). The median plasma levels at 12 months in ω-3 CA patients were 89 μg/mL (interquartile range [IQR], 46-131 μg/mL) for EPA and 91 μg/mL (IQR, 71-114 μg/mL) for DHA with top tertile levels of 151 μg/mL (IQR, 132-181 μg/mL) and 118 μg/mL (IQR, 102-143 μg/mL), respectively. Compared with corn oil, the adjusted hazard ratios for the highest tertile of achieved plasma levels were 0.98 (95% CI, 0.83-1.16; P = .81) for EPA, and 1.02 (95% CI, 0.86-1.20; P = .85 for DHA. Sensitivity analyses based on changes in plasma and red blood cell levels of EPA and DHA and primary and secondary prevention subgroups showed similar results.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients treated with ω-3 CA, the highest achieved tertiles of EPA and DHA were associated with neither benefit nor harm in patients at high cardiovascular risk.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02104817.

A meta-analysis of medications directed against PCSK9 in familial hypercholesterolemia

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Several medications targeting PCSK9 reduce LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). We aimed to assess in patients diagnosed clinically as HeFH, whether LDL-C reduction varied by different therapeutic approaches to PCSK9-targeting or by the underlying genetic variant.

METHODS

We conducted a random-effects meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials assessing PCSK9-targeting therapies, namely alirocumab, evolocumab and inclisiran, in patients with clinically diagnosed HeFH and restricted analyses to those patients in whom genotypic data were available. A search of MEDLINE and Embase identified eligible trials published between inception and June 29, 2020. We included trials of sufficient duration to allow for a stable treatment effect: ~12 weeks for monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) (alirocumab, evolocumab) and ~1 year for small interfering RNA (siRNA) (inclisiran). Single-moderator meta-regression comparing mean percentage LDL-C reduction between mAbs and siRNA as well as PCSK9-targeting therapies between different genotypes was used to assess heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Eight trials of HeFH met our inclusion criteria, including 1887 genotyped patients. Among monogenic HeFH cases (N = 1347) the LDL-C reduction from baseline was 46.12% (95%CI 48.4-43.9) for siRNA and 50.4% (59.3-41.4) for mAbs compared to control, without evidence of significant heterogeneity between treatment (Q_M = 0.32, df = 1, p = 0.57). Irrespective of therapeutic approach to PCSK9-targeting, reductions in LDL-C were generally consistent across genetic variants (LDL-Receptor variants, LDL-Receptor variants of unknown significance, Apolipoprotein B variants, two variants and no variant) (Q_M = 8.3, df = 4, p = 0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with HeFH, the LDL-C-lowering effect of PCSK9-targeting medications did not show statistical heterogeneity across different drug-classes and across genetic variants.

New and Emerging Therapies for Reduction of LDL-Cholesterol and Apolipoprotein B: JACC Focus Seminar 1/4

Adding to the foundation of statins, ezetimibe and proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i), novel, emerging low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)-lowering therapies are under development for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Inclisiran, a small interfering RNA molecule that inhibits PCSK9, only needs to be dosed twice a year and has the potential to help overcome current barriers to persistence and adherence to lipid-lowering therapies. Bempedoic acid, which lowers LDL-C upstream from statins, provides a novel alternative for patients with statin intolerance. Angiopoetin-like 3 protein (ANGPTL3) inhibitors have been shown to provide potent LDL-C lowering in patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia without major adverse effects as seen with lomitapide and mipomersen, and may reduce the need for apheresis. Finally, CETP inhibitors may yet be effective with the development of obicetrapib. These novel agents provide the clinician the tools to effectively lower LDL-C across the entire range of LDL-C-induced elevation of cardiovascular risk, from primary prevention and secondary prevention to null-null homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia patients.

Pooled Patient-Level Analysis of Inclisiran Trials in Patients With Familial Hypercholesterolemia or Atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND

Inclisiran is a double-stranded small interfering RNA that suppresses proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK9) translation in the liver, leading to sustained reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and other atherogenic lipoproteins with twice-yearly dosing.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to conduct a patient-level pooled analysis from 3 phase 3 studies of inclisiran.

METHODS

Participants with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (ORION-9 [Trial to Evaluate the Effect of Inclisiran Treatment on Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) in Subjects With Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia (HeFH)]), atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) (ORION-10 [Inclisiran for Participants With Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease and Elevated Low-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol]), or ASCVD and ASCVD risk equivalents (ORION-11 [Inclisiran for Subjects With ASCVD or ASCVD-Risk Equivalents and Elevated Low-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol]) taking maximally tolerated statin therapy, with or without other LDL-C-lowering agents, were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either inclisiran or placebo, administered by subcutaneous injection on day 1, day 90, and every 6 months thereafter for 540 days. The coprimary endpoints were the placebo-corrected percentage change in LDL-C level from baseline to day 510 and the time-adjusted percentage change in LDL-C level from baseline after day 90 to day 540. Levels of other atherogenic lipoproteins and treatment-emergent adverse events were also assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 3,660 participants (n = 482, n = 1,561, and n = 1,617 from ORION-9, -10, and -11, respectively) underwent randomization. The placebo-corrected change in LDL-C with inclisiran at day 510 was -50.7% (95% confidence interval: -52.9% to -48.4%; p < 0.0001). The corresponding time-adjusted change in LDL-C was -50.5% (95% confidence interval: -52.1% to -48.9%; p < 0.0001). Safety was similar in both groups. Treatment-emergent adverse events at the injection site were more frequent with inclisiran than placebo (5.0% vs. 0.7%), but were predominantly mild, and none were severe or persistent. Liver and kidney function tests, creatine kinase values, and platelet counts did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

These pooled safety and efficacy data show that inclisiran, given twice yearly in addition to maximally tolerated statin therapy with or without other LDL-C lowering agents, is an effective, safe, and well-tolerated treatment to lower LDL-C in adults with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, ASCVD, or ASCVD risk equivalents.

Rationale and design of ApoA-I Event Reducing in Ischemic Syndromes II (AEGIS-II): A phase 3, multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study to investigate the efficacy and safety of CSL112 in subjects after acute myocardial infarction

Acute myocardial infarction (MI) patients remain at high risk for recurrent events. Cholesterol efflux, mediated by apolipoprotein A-I, removes excess cholesterol from atherosclerotic plaque and transports it to the liver for excretion. Impaired cholesterol efflux is associated with higher cardiovascular (CV) event rates among both patients with stable coronary artery disease and recent MI. CSL112, a novel intravenous formulation of apolipoprotein A-I (human) derived from human plasma, increases cholesterol efflux capacity. AEGIS-II is a phase 3, multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial investigating the efficacy and safety of CSL112 compared to placebo among high-risk acute MI participants. Eligibility criteria include age ≥ 18 years with type 1 (spontaneous) MI, evidence of multivessel stable coronary artery disease, and presence of diabetes requiring pharmacotherapy, or ≥2 of the following: age ≥ 65 years, prior MI, or peripheral artery disease. A target sample of 17,400 participants will be randomized 1:1 to receive 4 weekly infusions of CSL112 6 g or placebo, initiated prior to or on the day of discharge and within 5 days of first medical contact. The primary outcome is the time to first occurrence of the composite of CV death, MI, or stroke through 90 days. Key secondary outcomes include the total number of hospitalizations for coronary, cerebral, or peripheral ischemia through 90 days and time to first occurrence of the composite primary outcome through 180 and 365 days. AEGIS-II will be the first trial to formally test whether enhancing cholesterol efflux can reduce the rate of recurrent major adverse CV events.

Effect of High-Dose Omega-3 Fatty Acids vs Corn Oil on Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Patients at High Cardiovascular Risk: The STRENGTH Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

It remains uncertain whether the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) reduce cardiovascular risk.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects on cardiovascular outcomes of a carboxylic acid formulation of EPA and DHA (omega-3 CA) with documented favorable effects on lipid and inflammatory markers in patients with atherogenic dyslipidemia and high cardiovascular risk.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A double-blind, randomized, multicenter trial (enrollment October 30, 2014, to June 14, 2017; study termination January 8, 2020; last patient visit May 14, 2020) comparing omega-3 CA with corn oil in statin-treated participants with high cardiovascular risk, hypertriglyceridemia, and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). A total of 13 078 patients were randomized at 675 academic and community hospitals in 22 countries in North America, Europe, South America, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomized to receive 4 g/d of omega-3 CA (n = 6539) or corn oil, which was intended to serve as an inert comparator (n = 6539), in addition to usual background therapies, including statins.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary efficacy measure was a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, coronary revascularization, or unstable angina requiring hospitalization.

RESULTS

When 1384 patients had experienced a primary end point event (of a planned 1600 events), the trial was prematurely halted based on an interim analysis that indicated a low probability of clinical benefit of omega-3 CA vs the corn oil comparator. Among the 13 078 treated patients (mean [SD] age, 62.5 [9.0] years; 35% women; 70% with diabetes; median low-density lipoprotein [LDL] cholesterol level, 75.0 mg/dL; median triglycerides level, 240 mg/dL; median HDL-C level, 36 mg/dL; and median high-sensitivity C-reactive protein level, 2.1 mg/L), 12 633 (96.6%) completed the trial with ascertainment of primary end point status. The primary end point occurred in 785 patients (12.0%) treated with omega-3 CA vs 795 (12.2%) treated with corn oil (hazard ratio, 0.99 [95% CI, 0.90-1.09]; P = .84). A greater rate of gastrointestinal adverse events was observed in the omega-3 CA group (24.7%) compared with corn oil-treated patients (14.7%).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among statin-treated patients at high cardiovascular risk, the addition of omega-3 CA, compared with corn oil, to usual background therapies resulted in no significant difference in a composite outcome of major adverse cardiovascular events. These findings do not support use of this omega-3 fatty acid formulation to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events in high-risk patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02104817.

Dual targeting of hepatic fibrosis and atherogenesis by icosabutate, an engineered eicosapentaenoic acid derivative

BACKGROUND & AIMS

While fibrosis stage predicts liver-associated mortality, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still the major overall cause of mortality in patients with NASH. Novel NASH drugs should thus ideally reduce both liver fibrosis and CVD. Icosabutate is a semi-synthetic, liver-targeted eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) derivative in clinical development for NASH. The primary aims of the current studies were to establish both the anti-fibrotic and anti-atherogenic efficacy of icosabutate in conjunction with changes in lipotoxic and atherogenic lipids in liver and plasma respectively.

METHODS

The effects of icosabutate on fibrosis progression and lipotoxicity were investigated in amylin liver NASH (AMLN) diet (high fat, cholesterol and fructose) fed ob/ob mice with biopsy-confirmed steatohepatitis and fibrosis and compared with the activity of obeticholic acid. APOE*3Leiden.CETP mice, a translational model for hyperlipidaemia and atherosclerosis, were used to evaluate the mechanisms underlying the lipid-lowering effect of icosabutate and its effect on atherosclerosis.

RESULTS

In AMLN ob/ob mice, icosabutate significantly reduced hepatic fibrosis and myofibroblast content in association with downregulation of the arachidonic acid cascade and a reduction in both hepatic oxidised phospholipids and apoptosis. In APOE*3Leiden.CETP mice, icosabutate reduced plasma cholesterol and TAG levels via increased hepatic uptake, upregulated hepatic lipid metabolism and downregulated inflammation pathways, and effectively decreased atherosclerosis development.

CONCLUSIONS

Icosabutate, a structurally engineered EPA derivative, effectively attenuates both hepatic fibrosis and atherogenesis and offers an attractive therapeutic approach to both liver- and CV-related morbidity and mortality in NASH patients.

Evolocumab in Pediatric Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia

BACKGROUND

Evolocumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody directed against proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9, is widely used in adult patients to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. Its effects in pediatric patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia are not known.

METHODS

We conducted a 24-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of evolocumab in pediatric patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. Patients 10 to 17 years of age who had received stable lipid-lowering treatment for at least 4 weeks before screening and who had an LDL cholesterol level of 130 mg per deciliter (3.4 mmol per liter) or more and a triglyceride level of 400 mg per deciliter (4.5 mmol per liter) or less were randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to receive monthly subcutaneous injections of evolocumab (420 mg) or placebo. The primary end point was the percent change in LDL cholesterol level from baseline to week 24; key secondary end points were the mean percent change in LDL cholesterol level from baseline to weeks 22 and 24 and the absolute change in LDL cholesterol level from baseline to week 24.

RESULTS

A total of 157 patients underwent randomization and received evolocumab (104 patients) or placebo (53 patients). At week 24, the mean percent change from baseline in LDL cholesterol level was -44.5% in the evolocumab group and -6.2% in the placebo group, for a difference of -38.3 percentage points (P<0.001). The absolute change in the LDL cholesterol level was -77.5 mg per deciliter (-2.0 mmol per liter) in the evolocumab group and -9.0 mg per deciliter (-0.2 mmol per liter) in the placebo group, for a difference of -68.6 mg per deciliter (-1.8 mmol per liter) (P<0.001). Results for all secondary lipid variables were significantly better with evolocumab than with placebo. The incidence of adverse events that occurred during the treatment period was similar in the evolocumab and placebo groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In this trial involving pediatric patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, evolocumab reduced the LDL cholesterol level and other lipid variables. (Funded by Amgen; HAUSER-RCT ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02392559.).

Pharmacodynamic relationship between PCSK9, alirocumab, and LDL-C lowering in the ODYSSEY CHOICE I trial

BACKGROUND

The ODYSSEY CHOICE I study (NCT01926782) evaluated alirocumab 300 mg every 4 weeks (Q4W) in patients with hypercholesterolemia receiving maximally tolerated statin or no statin.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to assess the relationship between alirocumab, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations with the CHOICE I alirocumab dosing regimen.

METHODS

This analysis included 803 patients (547 statin-treated, 256 without statin) who were randomized to alirocumab 300 mg Q4W, alirocumab 75 mg every 2 weeks (Q2W), or placebo. 300 mg Q4W and 75 mg Q2W doses were adjusted to 150 mg Q2W at Week 12 if Week 8 LDL-C was >70 or >100 mg/dL, depending on cardiovascular risk, or if LDL-C reduction was <30% from baseline.

RESULTS

Most patients remained on 300 mg Q4W without dose adjustment as they achieved study-defined LDL-C goals at Week 8 (statin-treated: 80.7%; no statin: 85.3%). LDL-C was reduced by 60.5%-71.9% over Weeks 20-24 in patients on 300 mg Q4W and 57.2%-63.0% in patients with dose adjustment from 300 mg Q4W to 150 mg Q2W. Statin-treated patients had higher cardiovascular risk as well as higher free PCSK9 and lower alirocumab concentrations (vs no statin), suggesting increased target-mediated clearance. Regardless of statin status, the most common adverse events in alirocumab-treated patients were injection-site reaction and headache.

CONCLUSIONS

Data provide further insight on alirocumab's mode of action in terms of relationship between alirocumab, PCSK9, and LDL-C, and disease severity, and support the use of alirocumab 300 mg Q4W as an efficacious dosing regimen for clinically meaningful LDL-C reductions.

Evinacumab for Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia

BACKGROUND

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia is characterized by premature cardiovascular disease caused by markedly elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. This disorder is associated with genetic variants that result in virtually absent (null-null) or impaired (non-null) LDL-receptor activity. Loss-of-function variants in the gene encoding angiopoietin-like 3 (ANGPTL3) are associated with hypolipidemia and protection against atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Evinacumab, a monoclonal antibody against ANGPTL3, has shown potential benefit in patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.

METHODS

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial, we randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio 65 patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia who were receiving stable lipid-lowering therapy to receive an intravenous infusion of evinacumab (at a dose of 15 mg per kilogram of body weight) every 4 weeks or placebo. The primary outcome was the percent change from baseline in the LDL cholesterol level at week 24.

RESULTS

The mean baseline LDL cholesterol level in the two groups was 255.1 mg per deciliter, despite the receipt of maximum doses of background lipid-lowering therapy. At week 24, patients in the evinacumab group had a relative reduction from baseline in the LDL cholesterol level of 47.1%, as compared with an increase of 1.9% in the placebo group, for a between-group least-squares mean difference of -49.0 percentage points (95% confidence interval [CI], -65.0 to -33.1; P<0.001); the between-group least-squares mean absolute difference in the LDL cholesterol level was -132.1 mg per deciliter (95% CI, -175.3 to -88.9; P<0.001). The LDL cholesterol level was lower in the evinacumab group than in the placebo group in patients with null-null variants (-43.4% vs. +16.2%) and in those with non-null variants (-49.1% vs. -3.8%). Adverse events were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia receiving maximum doses of lipid-lowering therapy, the reduction from baseline in the LDL cholesterol level in the evinacumab group, as compared with the small increase in the placebo group, resulted in a between-group difference of 49.0 percentage points at 24 weeks. (Funded by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals; ELIPSE HoFH ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03399786.).

Effect of 1 or 2 Doses of Inclisiran on Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels: One-Year Follow-up of the ORION-1 Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Sustained reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) with lipid-lowering therapies that require frequent dosing are reliant on patient adherence, and poor adherence is associated with worse clinical outcomes.

Objective

To determine whether inclisiran, a small interfering RNA, reduces mean LDL-C exposure with an infrequent dosing regimen.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Prespecified analysis of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter phase 2 clinical trial. Participants were followed up monthly for LDL-C levels and proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK9) measurements as well as safety until their LDL-C levels had returned to within 20% of their change from baseline (maximum 360 days). The study included patients with elevated LDL-C despite maximally tolerated statin therapy. Data were analyzed between January 11, 2016, and June 7, 2017.

Interventions

One dose (200, 300, or 500 mg on day 1) or 2 doses (100, 200, or 300 mg on days 1 and 90) of inclisiran sodium or placebo.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Duration of time to return to within 20% of change from baseline for LDL-C levels and time-averaged LDL-C reductions over 1 year.

Results

At baseline, among the 501 participants, 65% were men (n = 326 of 501), mean age was 63 years, 6% had familial hypercholesterolemia (n = 28 of 501), and 69% had established ASCVD (n = 347 of 501). Baseline LDL-C was 128 mg/dL among 501 randomized participants. The percentage of participants who were followed up to day 360 because their LDL-C levels had not returned to within 20% of their change from baseline ranged from 48.3% to 65.0% for those receiving a single dose and between 55.9% and 83.1% of those receiving 2 doses, with similar effects observed for PCSK9. Time-averaged reduction in LDL-C levels over 1 year after a single dose ranged from 29.5% to 38.7% (P < .001 between groups) and from 29.9% to 46.4% (P < .001 between groups) for those who received 2 doses. The 2-dose 300-mg regimen produced the highest proportion of responders at day 360 and the greatest mean reduction in LDL-C over 1 year. Incidence of adverse events was similar through to 1 year.

Conclusions and Relevance

Treatment with inclisiran resulted in durable reductions in LDL-C over 1 year. Inclisiran may offer a novel approach to LDL-C reduction with the convenience of infrequent dosing.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02597127.

Carotid Intima-Media Thickness Progression as Surrogate Marker for Cardiovascular Risk: Meta-Analysis of 119 Clinical Trials Involving 100 667 Patients

BACKGROUND

To quantify the association between effects of interventions on carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) progression and their effects on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.

METHODS

We systematically collated data from randomized, controlled trials. cIMT was assessed as the mean value at the common-carotid-artery; if unavailable, the maximum value at the common-carotid-artery or other cIMT measures were used. The primary outcome was a combined CVD end point defined as myocardial infarction, stroke, revascularization procedures, or fatal CVD. We estimated intervention effects on cIMT progression and incident CVD for each trial, before relating the 2 using a Bayesian meta-regression approach.

RESULTS

We analyzed data of 119 randomized, controlled trials involving 100 667 patients (mean age 62 years, 42% female). Over an average follow-up of 3.7 years, 12 038 patients developed the combined CVD end point. Across all interventions, each 10 μm/y reduction of cIMT progression resulted in a relative risk for CVD of 0.91 (95% Credible Interval, 0.87-0.94), with an additional relative risk for CVD of 0.92 (0.87-0.97) being achieved independent of cIMT progression. Taken together, we estimated that interventions reducing cIMT progression by 10, 20, 30, or 40 μm/y would yield relative risks of 0.84 (0.75-0.93), 0.76 (0.67-0.85), 0.69 (0.59-0.79), or 0.63 (0.52-0.74), respectively. Results were similar when grouping trials by type of intervention, time of conduct, time to ultrasound follow-up, availability of individual-participant data, primary versus secondary prevention trials, type of cIMT measurement, and proportion of female patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The extent of intervention effects on cIMT progression predicted the degree of CVD risk reduction. This provides a missing link supporting the usefulness of cIMT progression as a surrogate marker for CVD risk in clinical trials.

Two Phase 3 Trials of Inclisiran in Patients with Elevated LDL Cholesterol

BACKGROUND

Inclisiran inhibits hepatic synthesis of proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9. Previous studies suggest that inclisiran might provide sustained reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels with infrequent dosing.

METHODS

We enrolled patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ORION-10 trial) and patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or an atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk equivalent (ORION-11 trial) who had elevated LDL cholesterol levels despite receiving statin therapy at the maximum tolerated dose. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either inclisiran (284 mg) or placebo, administered by subcutaneous injection on day 1, day 90, and every 6 months thereafter over a period of 540 days. The coprimary end points in each trial were the placebo-corrected percentage change in LDL cholesterol level from baseline to day 510 and the time-adjusted percentage change in LDL cholesterol level from baseline after day 90 and up to day 540.

RESULTS

A total of 1561 and 1617 patients underwent randomization in the ORION-10 and ORION-11 trials, respectively. Mean (±SD) LDL cholesterol levels at baseline were 104.7±38.3 mg per deciliter (2.71±0.99 mmol per liter) and 105.5±39.1 mg per deciliter (2.73±1.01 mmol per liter), respectively. At day 510, inclisiran reduced LDL cholesterol levels by 52.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 48.8 to 55.7) in the ORION-10 trial and by 49.9% (95% CI, 46.6 to 53.1) in the ORION-11 trial, with corresponding time-adjusted reductions of 53.8% (95% CI, 51.3 to 56.2) and 49.2% (95% CI, 46.8 to 51.6) (P<0.001 for all comparisons vs. placebo). Adverse events were generally similar in the inclisiran and placebo groups in each trial, although injection-site adverse events were more frequent with inclisiran than with placebo (2.6% vs. 0.9% in the ORION-10 trial and 4.7% vs. 0.5% in the ORION-11 trial); such reactions were generally mild, and none were severe or persistent.

CONCLUSIONS

Reductions in LDL cholesterol levels of approximately 50% were obtained with inclisiran, administered subcutaneously every 6 months. More injection-site adverse events occurred with inclisiran than with placebo. (Funded by the Medicines Company; ORION-10 and ORION-11 ClinicalTrials.gov numbers, NCT03399370 and NCT03400800.).

Inclisiran for the Treatment of Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia

BACKGROUND

Familial hypercholesterolemia is characterized by an elevated level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and an increased risk of premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Monoclonal antibodies directed against proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK9) have been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol levels by more than 50% but require administration every 2 to 4 weeks. In a phase 2 trial, a twice-yearly injection of inclisiran, a small interfering RNA, was shown to inhibit hepatic synthesis of PCSK9 in adults with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.

METHODS

In this phase 3, double-blind trial, we randomly assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, 482 adults who had heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia to receive subcutaneous injections of inclisiran sodium (at a dose of 300 mg) or matching placebo on days 1, 90, 270, and 450. The two primary end points were the percent change from baseline in the LDL cholesterol level on day 510 and the time-adjusted percent change from baseline in the LDL cholesterol level between day 90 and day 540.

RESULTS

The median age of the patients was 56 years, and 47% were men; the mean baseline level of LDL cholesterol was 153 mg per deciliter. At day 510, the percent change in the LDL cholesterol level was a reduction of 39.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], -43.7 to -35.7) in the inclisiran group and an increase of 8.2% (95% CI, 4.3 to 12.2) in the placebo group, for a between-group difference of -47.9 percentage points (95% CI, -53.5 to -42.3; P<0.001). The time-averaged percent change in the LDL cholesterol level between day 90 and day 540 was a reduction of 38.1% (95% CI, -41.1 to -35.1) in the inclisiran group and an increase of 6.2% (95% CI, 3.3 to 9.2) in the placebo group, for a between-group difference of -44.3 percentage points (95% CI, -48.5 to -40.1; P<0.001). There were robust reductions in LDL cholesterol levels in all genotypes of familial hypercholesterolemia. Adverse events and serious adverse events were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Among adults with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, those who received inclisiran had significantly lower levels of LDL cholesterol than those who received placebo, with an infrequent dosing regimen and an acceptable safety profile. (Funded by the Medicines Company; ORION-9 ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03397121.).

Association of Initial and Serial C-Reactive Protein Levels With Adverse Cardiovascular Events and Death After Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Secondary Analysis of the VISTA-16 Trial

Importance

Higher baseline high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels after an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. The usefulness of serial hsCRP measurements for risk stratifying patients after ACS is not well characterized.

Objective

To assess whether longitudinal increases in hsCRP measurements during the 16 weeks after ACS are independently associated with a greater risk of a major adverse cardiac event (MACE), all-cause death, and cardiovascular death.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Secondary analysis of the double-blind, multicenter, randomized clinical Vascular Inflammation Suppression to Treat Acute Coronary Syndromes for 16 Weeks (VISTA-16) trial conducted between June 1, 2010, and March 7, 2012 (study termination on March 9, 2012), which included 5145 patients from 362 academic and community hospitals in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, India, and North America assigned to receive varespladib or placebo on a background of atorvastatin treatment beginning within 96 hours of presentation with an ACS. The present study evaluated data from patients with available baseline and longitudinal hsCRP levels measured at weeks 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 after randomization to treatment or placebo. Statistical analysis was performed from June 15, 2018, through September 15, 2018.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes were MACE (composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or unstable angina with documented ischemia requiring hospitalization), cardiovascular death, and all-cause death after adjustment for baseline clinical, treatment, and laboratory characteristics, including baseline hsCRP levels.

Results

Among 4257 patients in this study, 3141 (73.8%) were men and the mean age was 60.3 years (interquartile range [IQR], 53.5-67.8 years). The median 16-week low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level was 64.9 mg/dL (IQR, 50.3-82.3 mg/dL), and the median hsCRP level was 2.4 mg/L (IQR, 1.1-5.2 mg/L). On multivariable analysis, higher baseline hsCRP level (hazard ratio [HR], 1.36 [95% CI, 1.13-1.63]; P = .001) and higher longitudinal hsCRP level (HR, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.09-1.21]; P < .001) were independently associated with MACE. Similar significant and independent associations were shown between baseline and longitudinal hsCRP levels and cardiovascular death (baseline: HR, 1.61 per SD [95% CI, 1.07-2.41], P = .02; longitudinal: HR, 1.26 per SD [95% CI, 1.19-1.34], P < .001) and between baseline and longitudinal hsCRP levels and all-cause death (baseline: HR, 1.58 per SD [95% CI, 1.07-2.35], P = .02; longitudinal: HR, 1.25 per SD [95% CI, 1.18-1.32], P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

Initial and subsequent increases in hsCRP levels during 16 weeks after ACS were associated with a greater risk of the combined MACE end point, cardiovascular death, and all-cause death despite established background therapies. Serial measurements of hsCRP during clinical follow-up after ACS may help to identify patients at higher risk for mortality and morbidity.

Moving Targets: Recent Advances in Lipid-Lowering Therapies

Statin therapy has delivered tremendous value to society by improving the burden of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Nonetheless, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally. Technological advances such as in the field of genomics have revolutionized drug discovery and development and have revealed novel therapeutic targets to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), as well as other detrimental lipids and lipoproteins. Therapeutic LDL-C lowering prevents atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease with an effect size proportional to absolute LDL-C reductions and time of exposure. This understanding supports the notion that reducing cumulative LDL-C exposure should be a key therapeutic target. PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) inhibiting monoclonal antibodies provides the possibility of reducing LDL-C to very low levels. Novel therapeutic platforms such as RNA inhibition present opportunities to combine robust lipid lowering with infrequent dosing regimens, introducing therapies with vaccine-like properties. The position of lipid-lowering therapies with targets other than LDL-C, such as Lp(a) [lipoprotein(a)], TRL (triglyceride-rich lipoproteins), and remnant cholesterol, will likely be determined by the results of ongoing clinical trials. Current evidence suggests that reducing Lp(a) or TRLs could attenuate atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk in specific categories of patients. This review provides an overview of the latest therapeutic developments, focusing on their mechanisms, efficacy, and safety.