Association between plasma PCSK9 and gamma-glutamyl transferase levels in diabetic patients

Abstract

Background Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a secreted proprotein convertase acting as a natural inhibitor of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor. Here, we prospectively investigated the relationship between the circulating levels of PCSK9 and metabolic parameters in 117 diabetic patients. Results Plasma PCSK9 level was significantly higher in type 2 than in type 1 diabetes ( P = 0.04), in diabetic patients under statins ( P < 10 −4) and in those with macrovascular complications ( P = 0.002). Univariable regression analysis revealed that plasma PCSK9 level correlated positively with age ( P = 0.003), body mass index ( P = 0.04), systolic blood pressure (SBP) ( P = 0.01), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels ( P = 0.0002) and statin treatment ( P = 0.001). In a multivariable linear regression analysis, PCSK9 correlated positively with GGT level ( β = 21.91, P = 0.0019) after adjustment for gender, age, type of diabetes, statin treatment, BMI, SBP and HbA1c. Conclusion PCSK9 level was independently associated with GGT level in diabetic patients, suggesting potential interaction between PCSK9 and liver function.