Standard Lipid-lowering Therapy Research Articles

Effect of evolocumab on carotid plaque composition in asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis (EVOCAR-1) using magnetic resonance imaging

Background and AimsTo determine the effect of evolocumab treatment in patients with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis ≥50 % on carotid plaque morphology and composition, as determined by magnetic resonance imaging. MethodsWe conducted a double-blind randomized controlled trial in patients with asymptomatic carotid artery plaque with ≥50 % stenosis and low-density lipoprotein-associated cholesterol (LDL-C) ≥1.8 mmol/L, despite standard lipid-lowering therapy, with 12 months of evolocumab or placebo injection every two weeks. The primary endpoint was the between group difference in the absolute change from baseline in carotid plaque lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC), assessed by carotid magnetic resonance. ResultsDue to interrupted recruitment during the COVID-19 pandemic, 33 patients (36 % female) were randomised, which was less than the target of 52. Mean age was 68.7 years (SD, 8.5) and baseline LDL-C 2.4 mmol/L(SD, 0.7). LDL-C was reduced with evolocumab to 0.8 mmol/L (SD, 0.5) vs 2.2 mmol/L (SD, 0.7) with placebo at 3 months (between group absolute difference -1.3 mmol/L [95 % CI, -1.7 to -0.9], p < 0.001). Evolocumab treatment was associated with a favourable change in LRNC at 12 months of -16 mm3 (SD, 54) whereas the placebo group showed -4 mm3 (SD, 44). Between group differences did not show statistically significance with a placebo-adjusted LRNC change of -17 mm3 ([95 % CI, -45 to 12], p = 0.25). Percentage carotid plaque LRNC also numerically reduced at 12 months, however this did not reach statistical significance (-2.4 % vessel wall volume [95 % CI, -5.7 to 0.9], p = 0.16). ConclusionIntensive LDL-C lowering with the addition of evolocumab to maximally tolerated lipid-lowering therapy did not lead to a statistically significant change in vulnerable plaque phenotype characteristics in patients with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis, but the study was underpowered due to under-recruitment in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract 13950: Real-World Effectiveness and Safety of Evinacumab in Pediatric and Adult Patients With Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A Multi-Site US Perspective

Introduction: Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) is an autosomal co-dominant disorder characterized by extreme elevations in LDL-C and early onset ASCVD. Unfortunately, patients with HoFH generally experience poor LDL-C lowering with standard lipid-lowering therapy and rarely achieve LDL-C goals. Evinacumab is a monoclonal antibody administered by monthly IV infusion that binds angiopoietin-like 3 and when added to standard lipid-lowering therapies lowers LDL-C by ~50% in clinical trials involving patients with HoFH. Real-world effectiveness and safety of evinacumab is unknown. Methods: We performed retrospective chart review to assess effectiveness and safety of evinacumab in patients with HoFH in clinical practice at six US academic medical centers. The primary efficacy endpoint was the percent change in LDL-C from baseline to first follow-up and to most recent follow-up after evinacumab initiation. Secondary efficacy endpoints were percent change in non-HDL-C, triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-C, and achievement of an LDL-C &lt;70 mg/dL. Adverse events were recorded. Results: Twenty-four patients (mean age 38 yrs; range 5-75) with HoFH were followed for a median of 63 weeks. Fifty percent were female, 66.7% had ASCVD, 87.5% were on a statin, 83.3% on ezetimibe, 66.7% on a PCSK9i, 24% on lomitapide, and 33.3% were undergoing lipoprotein apheresis. Significant reductions in LDL-C, non-HDL-C, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL-C were observed both at first follow-up (4 weeks) and most recent follow-up (63 weeks) (p &lt; 0.001 for all) (Table). Significantly more patients achieved LDL-C &lt;70 mg/dL after evinacumab was added. No serious adverse events occurred and evinacumab was generally well-tolerated. Conclusions: Across six US academic medical centers, evinacumab was generally well-tolerated by patients with HoFH and lowered LDL-C by ~50%, consistent with results from clinical trials.

Abstract 14816: PCSK9 Inhibitors Modify Plaque and Reduce Plaque Progression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Introduction: Elevated coronary plaque burden and high-risk plaque characteristics, such as thin fibrous cap, are associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. However, there is limited evidence on the effect of PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) on changes to plaque burden and composition. Hypothesis: We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effects of standard lipid-lowering therapy with vs. without PCSK9i on plaque burden and phenotype. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central for studies that performed serial intravascular imaging comparing patients with vs. without PCKS9i therapy. Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction and assessment of bias. All outcomes were continuous; thus, we computed pooled mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Random-effects models were used. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4.1. Results: We included 1,696 patients from 6 RCTs. The mean follow-up ranged from 36 to 76 weeks. Mean age ranged from 58.4 to 61.8 years; 1,246 (65%) were male; and 368 (21.6%) had previous myocardial infarction. Percent atheroma volume (MD -1.05%; 95% CI -1.32, -0.77%; p&lt;0.001), total atheroma volume (MD -6.33 mm 3 ; 95% CI -10.01,-2.66 mm 3 ; p&lt;0.001), and total lipid index (SMD -0.58; 95% CI -0.90,-0.26; p&lt;0.001) were significantly reduced in patients treated with PCSK9i. The minimum fibrous cap thickness (SMD 0.59; 95% CI 0.26,0.93; p&lt;0.001) was also significantly improved in patients randomized to PCSK9i. Conclusions: Our findings suggests that PCSK9i reduce progression of coronary atherosclerosis and stabilizes plaque, as evidence by favorable changes in percent atheroma volume, total atheroma volume, lipid index of the plaque, and minimal fibrous cap thickness.

Abstract 18931: A PCSK9 and APOB Double Heterozygote Presenting Phenotypically Similar to Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Introduction: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited disorder associated with mutations in APOB, PCSK9 and LDLR genes. Heterozygous FH (HeFH) generally has one gene mutation. Homozygous FH (HoFH) has two mutations in the same gene and is characterized by vastly elevated plasma LDL-C, accelerated ASCVD and resistance to standard lipid-lowering therapy. Combinations of mutations can present with a phenotype similar to HoFH. We present a double heterozygous patient with unreported mutations in PCSK9 and APOB genes, exhibiting clinical features of HoFH. Hypothesis: Patients with multiple gene mutations for FH can present clinically similar to HoFH and would benefit from novel lipid lowering therapies Methods: 73-year-old female with a history of diabetes and hyperlipidemia presented in 2018 with dyspnea on exertion. Cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG) were 430 and 715 mg/dl respectively, on rosuvastatin 40 mg and omega 3 fatty acids. Physical exam showed arcus senilis. A nuclear stress test showed ST depressions in inferolateral leads but normal scintigraphy. Genetic testing revealed APOB and PCSK9 mutations. She was then treated with rosuvastatin, icosapentyl ethyl, ezetimibe and fenofibrate. TC, LDL, TG and ApoB levels were 463, 236, 747 and &gt;240 mg/dl respectively. Evolocumab was added, with reduction of TC, TG and ApoB levels to 326, 432 and 182mg/dl, despite maximal available therapy. Results: Genetic testing revealed APOB variant NP_000375.2:p.Gln3378His and PCSK9 variant NP_777596.2:pAla544Thr, which were unreported mutations with unknown clinical significance. Genetically, this patient is a double heterozygote but expresses a phenotype similar to HoFH due to a poor response to maximum therapy. Conclusions: Although usually genetically defined, the phenotype of HoFH can present with different genetic variations. Chaudhry et al established genetic diagnosis of HoFH in 0.9% of patients initially diagnosed as HeFH, of which 3 were true homozygotes and 3 were compound heterozygotes. These findings support the idea that various heterozygous combinations of mutations in the genes for LDLR, APOB and PCSK9, may present clinically similar to HoFH. Patients with these mutations could benefit from novel agents such as evinacumab.

Koroner arter baypass cerrahisinde statinin antikardiyolipin antikor seviyelerine etkisi

Objectives: The aim of this research is to study the link between lipid lowering mechanism and other beneficial biological effects of statin in patients of coronary bypass surgery by revealing the relation of preoperative statin on pre- , peri- and postoperative cardiolipin IgG and IgM antibody levels. The case in open cardiac surgery was not keeping the heart beating only but preventing or minimizing the myocardial injury. For this reason, a new method for preservation of blood elements and myocardium must be uncovered. Material and Methods: Thirty patients with coronary ischemic disease whose scheduled to undergo elective coronary artery bypass graft surgery and fitting the criteria for our research were divided in to two groups, those on standard lipid lowering therapy using atorvastatin ( 40 mg/day ) for at least 7 days prior to surgery (group A) and second group those without regular lipid lowering therapy preoperatively (B). All the parameters were documented and recorded, including demographic, hemodynamic, laboratory and surgical technique with outcome. Results: The recorded parameters and values were analyzed using the following tests in computer program: Kolmogorov- Smirnov test, student t test, paired t test and Chi- square test. All results were scheduled in 6 tables for simple and better evaluation. Conclusion: The findings support the beneficial effects of statin in the perioperative and early postoperative (first 24 hours) in open cardiac surgery.

Composition and distribution of lipoproteins after evolocumab in familial dysbetalipoproteinemia: A randomized controlled trial

Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) reduce fasting and post fat load cholesterol in non-HDL and intermediate density lipoprotein (IDL) in familial dysbetalipoproteinemia (FD). However, the effect of PCSK9 mAbs on the distribution and composition of atherogenic lipoproteins in patients with FD is unknown. To evaluate the effect of the PCSK9 mAb evolocumab added to standard lipid-lowering therapy in patients with FD on fasting and post fat load lipoprotein distribution and composition. Randomized placebo-controlled double-blind crossover trial comparing evolocumab (140 mg subcutaneous every 2 weeks) with placebo during two 12-week treatment periods. Patients received an oral fat load at the start and end of each treatment period. Apolipoproteins (apo) were measured with ultracentrifugation, gradient gel electrophoresis, retinyl palmitate and SDS-PAGE. PCSK9 mAbs significantly reduced particle number of all atherogenic lipoproteins, with a stronger effect on smaller lipoproteins than on larger lipoproteins (e.g. IDL-apoB 49%, 95%confidence interval (CI) 41-59 and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)-apoB 33%, 95%CI 16-50). Furthermore, PCSK9 mAbs lowered cholesterol more than triglyceride (TG) in VLDL, IDL and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (e.g. VLDL-C 48%, 95%CI 29-63%; and VLDL-TG 20%, 95%CI 6.3-41%). PCSK9 mAbs did not affect the post fat load response of chylomicrons. PCSK9 mAbs added to standard lipid-lowering therapy in FD patients significantly reduced lipoprotein particle number, in particular the smaller and more cholesterol-rich lipoproteins (i.e. IDL and LDL). PCSK9 mAbs did not affect chylomicron metabolism. It seems likely that the observed effects are achieved by increased hepatic lipoprotein clearance, but the specific working mechanism of PCSK9 mAbs in FD patients remains to be elucidated.

The PACMAN-AMI trial: a revolution in the treatment of acute coronary syndromes.

After an acute coronary syndrome (ACS), the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) persists despite the reperfusion of the culprit lesion. The addition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) to standard lipid-lowering therapies has been demonstrated to effectively reduce the levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), with a consistent decrease of MACE in large, randomized clinical trials enrolling patients at high risk of cardiovascular events. There is a strong rationale for an immediate and aggressive LDL-C lowering with the use of PCSK9i in ACS patients. The PACMAN-AMI trial tested this hypothesis demonstrating that in ACS patients, the addition of subcutaneous biweekly alirocumab, compared with placebo, to high-intensity statin therapy resulted in significantly greater coronary plaque regression in non-infarct-related arteries after 52 weeks, as assessed by novel intra-coronary imaging modalities. These findings might provide the mechanistic rationale in favour of early initiation of very intensive LDL-C-lowering therapy in the acute setting of ACS, potentially modifying the actual common pattern of treatment.

Effect of evolocumab on fasting and post fat load lipids and lipoproteins in familial dysbetalipoproteinemia

Familial dysbetalipoproteinemia (FD) is the second most common monogenic lipid disorder (prevalence 1 in 850-3500), characterized by postprandial remnant accumulation and associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Many FD patients do not achieve non-HDL-C treatment goals, indicating the need for additional lipid-lowering treatment options. To evaluate the effect of the PCSK9 monoclonal antibody evolocumab added to standard lipid-lowering therapy on fasting and post fat load lipids and lipoproteins in patients with FD. A randomized placebo-controlled double-blind crossover trial comparing evolocumab (140 mg subcutaneous every 2 weeks) with placebo during two 12-week treatment periods. At the start and end of each treatment period patients received an oral fat load. The primary endpoint was the 8-hour post fat load non-HDL-C area under the curve (AUC). Secondary endpoints included fasting and post fat load lipids and lipoproteins. In total, 28 patients completed the study. Mean age was 62±9 years and 93% had an Ɛ2Ɛ2 genotype. Evolocumab reduced the 8-hour post fat load non-HDL-C AUC with 49% (95%CI 42-55) and apolipoprotein B (apoB) AUC with 47% (95%CI 41-53). Other fasting and absolute post fat load lipids and lipoproteins including triglycerides and remnant-cholesterol were also significantly reduced by evolocumab. However, evolocumab did not have significant effects on the rise above fasting levels that occurred after consumption of the oral fat load. Evolocumab added to standard lipid-lowering therapy significantly reduced fasting and absolute post fat load concentrations of non-HDL-C, apoB and other atherogenic lipids and lipoproteins in FD patients. The clinically significant decrease in lipids and lipoproteins can be expected to translate into a reduction in CVD risk in these high-risk patients.

Effect of evolocumab versus placebo added to standard lipid-lowering therapy on fasting and post fat load lipids and lipoproteins in familial dysbetalipoproteinemia

Abstract Background Familial Dysbetalipoproteinemia (FD) is the second most common genetic lipid disorder (prevalence ranging from 1 in 1000–2500), characterized by impaired postprandial lipoprotein clearance and associated with increased cardiovascular (CVD) risk. The majority of FD patients do not achieve non-HDL-cholesterol treatment goals, indicating the medical need for additional lipid-lowering treatment options. Purpose To evaluate the effect of the PCSK9 monoclonal antibody evolocumab added to standard lipid-lowering therapy on fasting and post fat load lipids and lipoproteins in FD patients. Methods A randomized placebo-controlled double-blind crossover trial comparing evolocumab (140 mg subcutaneous every 2 weeks) with placebo during two 12 week treatment periods. At the start and end of each treatment period FD patients received an oral fat load. The primary endpoint was the 8 hour post fat load non-HDL-cholesterol level expressed as area under the curve (AUC). Levels of other fasting and post fat load lipids and (apo)lipoproteins were assessed with ultracentrifugation, polyacrylamide gels, retinyl palmitate and SDS-PAGE. Results In total, 28 patients completed the study. Mean age was 62±9 years and 93% had an ɛ2ɛ2 genotype. Compared with placebo, evolocumab reduced fasting non-HDL-cholesterol with 51% (95% CI 43–57) and the 8 hours post fat load non-HDL-cholesterol AUC with 49% (95% CI 42–55). Fasting triglyceride levels were reduced with 24% (95% CI 14–37) and the 8 hours post fat load triglyceride AUC was reduced with 22% (95% CI 11–29). Except for HDL-cholesterol, all fasting and 8 hour post fat load lipids and (apo)lipoproteins were significantly reduced by evolocumab, including apolipoprotein B (8 hour post fat load AUC reduction 47% (95% CI 41–53) and remnant cholesterol (8 hour post fat load AUC reduction 49% (95% CI −38 to 59)), compared with placebo. After treatment with evolocumab, 89% of patients achieved their non-HDL-cholesterol treatment goal compared with 36% after placebo. Conclusion Evolocumab added to standard lipid-lowering therapy significantly reduced fasting and post fat load non-HDL-cholesterol and other atherogenic lipids and lipoproteins in FD patients. This is the largest clinical trial in FD to date and the first to investigate evolocumab in this very high-risk group. The large decrease in fasting and post fat load lipids and lipoproteins will likely lower CVD risk in these patients. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): AmgenThis project was funded by Amgen for an investigator-initiated research project. The University Medical Center Utrecht was the sponsor of the study. The financial funder had no role in the design, collection of the data, conduct of the analyses or reporting of the study results.

Safety and efficacy of inclisiran in South African patients at high cardiovascular risk: A subanalysis of the ORION phase III clinical trials

Background. Inclisiran significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in individuals with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia, established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or ASCVD risk equivalents (type 2 diabetes, familial hypercholesterolaemia or a 10-year risk of a cardiovascular event ≥20%) in the ORION phase III clinical trials. Infrequent dosing at days 1, 90, 270 and 450 resulted in a mean LDL-C reduction of ~50%. A total of 298 participants from South Africa (SA) were enrolled. Local data are needed to support the use of inclisiran in the SA population, potentially addressing an unmet need for additional LDL-C-lowering therapies. Objectives. To analyse the ORION phase III trial data to assess the efficacy and safety of inclisiran in SA participants. Methods. ORION-9, 10 and 11 were randomised, double-blind, phase III trials. Participants were receiving maximally tolerated statins with or without other lipid-lowering therapies (excluding protein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors). Participants were randomised 1:1 to inclisiran sodium 300 mg/284 mg (free acid) or placebo administered at days 1, 90, 270 and 450. The co-primary endpoints were the LDL-C percentage change from baseline to day 510 and the time-averaged percentage change in LDL-C from baseline after day 90 up to day 540. Key secondary endpoints included the absolute change in LDL-C from baseline to day 510, the time-averaged absolute change from baseline after day 90 up to day 540, and changes in other lipids and lipoproteins. Results. The mean age of the participants was 58.6 years (56% male). The mean LDL-C level at baseline was 3.6 mmol/L. At day 510, inclisiran reduced LDL-C levels by 54.2% compared with placebo (95% confidence interval (CI) –61.3 - –47.2; p&lt;0.0001). The corresponding time-averaged reduction in LDL-C was 52.8% (95% CI –57.9 - –47.8; p&lt;0.0001). Treatment-emergent adverse events at the injection site were more common with inclisiran compared with placebo (10.1% v. 0.7%); however, all were mild or moderate in nature and none were persistent. Conclusion. Inclisiran, given in addition to maximally tolerated standard lipid-lowering therapy, is effective and safe and results in robust reductions in LDL-C in SA patients at high cardiovascular risk.

The Effect of Early Versus Standard Lipid-Lowering Therapy (LLT) Initiation on the Acuity of Presentation for Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI): An Australian Observational Study

Despite multiple trials demonstrating the effectiveness of statins to prevent coronary events in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), patients remain at significant residual risk. Although some risk can be attributed to disease aetiologies, a significant portion is due to a delay in implementing and optimising LLT. This retrospective analysis compared clinical presentations for PCI (acute or elective) and the incidence of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in patients following early (≥1-week pre-PCI) vs standard (post-PCI) initiation of LLT.

Beyond Statins and PCSK9 Inhibitors: Updates in Management of Familial and Refractory Hypercholesterolemias.

Elevation in apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins in the blood is a cause of atherosclerosis. Statins have changed the preventive cardiology scenario, and more recently monoclonal proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors were added as robust agents to further reduce pro-atherogenic lipoproteins and therefore prevent cardiovascular events. However, despite this many dyslipidemic individuals persist with inadequate LDL-C levels and still at risk. The purpose of this review was to discuss current status and describe advances in therapies beyond statins and monoclonal PCSK9 inhibitors. Ezetimibe and lomitapide have been used for many years to further reduce LDL-C and longer term data reinforce their safety. Bempedoic acid, an inhibitor of adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase, has been shown to add LDL-C reduction on top of statins and ezetimibe, furthermore it may be an alternative for statin intolerant patients. Inclisiran is a small interfering ribonucleic acid inhibitor that reduces the hepatic production of PCSK9 that induces robust LDL-C lowering, similar to monoclonal antibodies, with the advantage of 2 or 3 injections per year. So far, no safety signs were seen with its use. Evinacumab, a monoclonal antibody that binds angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3), induces robust LDL-C lowering in either homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia or severe hypercholesterolemia patients with good tolerability. Many high-risk individuals persist with elevated LDL-C, newer medications further lower LDL-C on top of standard lipid-lowering therapies and are well tolerated. Ongoing clinical trials may prove if these novel medications will reduce cardiovascular events with safety.

Inhibition of angiopoietin-like 3 for the management of severe hypercholesterolemia.

Despite the therapeutic advances for patients with severe hypercholesterolemia, particularly those with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH), most patients are unable to achieve target low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels with the current available standard lipid-lowering therapy (LLT). We review the role of angiopoietin-like 3 (ANGPTL3) inhibition as an additional therapeutic option for severe hypercholesterolemia, particularly HoFH. Evinacumab is a monoclonal antibody against ANGPTL3, and reduces LDL-C independent of LDL-receptor activity. ANGPTL3 inhibitors are effective in lowering LDL-C in patients with FH, with a 50% reduction in LDL-C in those with HoFH. Longer-term efficacy and safety have been demonstrated with reductions in LDL-C maintained following 48 weeks of therapy. Gene silencing strategies directed against ANGPTL3 include antisense oligonucleotide and small-interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA). ARO-ANG3 is a siRNA directed against ANGPTL3 messenger ribonucleic acid and is associated with up to a 42% reduction in LDL-C. With the promise of these emerging novel therapeutics directed against ANGPTL3 on the horizon, achieving acceptable target LDL-C levels in HoFH without the need for lipoprotein apheresis may finally be a realistic goal and we can anticipate a decrease in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in these difficult to treat patients.

Pleiotropic Effects of PCSK-9 Inhibitors.

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK-9) inhibitors are a group of drugs whose main mechanism of action is binding to the PCSK-9 molecule, which reduces the degradation of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDL-R) and, hence, increases the uptake of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc) from the bloodstream as well as reducing its concentration. The effectiveness of three monoclonal antibodies, namely, alirocumab (human IgG1/κ monoclonal antibody, genetically engineered in Chinese hamster ovary cells), evolocumab (the first fully human monoclonal antibody), and bococizumab (humanized mouse antibody), in inhibiting the action of PCSK-9 and reducing LDLc levels has been confirmed. The first two, after clinical trials, were approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are used primarily in the treatment of autosomal familial hypercholesterolemia and in cases of statin intolerance. They are currently used both as monotherapy and in combination with statins and ezetimibe to intensify therapy and achieve therapeutic goals following the American Heart Association (AHA) and European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines. However, the lipid-lowering effect is not the only effect of action described by researchers that PCSK-9 inhibitors have. This paper is a review of the literature describing the pleiotropic effects of PCSK-9 inhibitors, which belong to a group of drugs that are being increasingly used, especially when standard lipid-lowering therapy fails. The article focuses on activities other than lipid-lowering, such as the anti-atherosclerotic effect and stabilization of atherosclerotic plaque, the anti-aggregation effect, the anticoagulant effect, the antineoplastic effect, and the ability to influence the course of bacterial infections. In this publication, we try to systematically review the current scientific data, both from our own scientific work and knowledge from international publications.

Novel therapies for familial hypercholesterolemia.

Familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic disorder of defective clearance and subsequent increase in serum LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) with a resultant increased risk of premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Despite treatment with traditional lipid-lowering therapies (LLT), most patients with familial hypercholesterolemia are unable to achieve target LDL-C. We review current and future novel therapeutic options available for familial hypercholesterolemia. The use of proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors are effective in lowering LDL-C in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, with a reduction in LDL-C of 60% in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) and up to 35% in homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH). Inclisiran, another novel agent, is a small-interfering ribonucleic acid that reduces hepatic production of PCSK9 to provide a prolonged and sustained reduction in LDL-C of nearly 50% in HeFH. However, both agents require LDL receptor (LDLR) activity. Evinacumab, a novel monoclonal antibody against angiopoetin-like 3 (ANGPTL3), reduces LDL-C by 50% independent of LDLR activity. Achieving a target LDL-C in familial hypercholesterolemia can be challenging with standard LLT; however, novel therapeutic modalities show remarkable reductions in LDL-C allowing nearly all patients with HeFH and a significant proportion of patients with HoFH to achieve acceptable LDL-C levels.

Abstract 16263: Association Between Visit-to-Visit Lipid Variability and Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Introduction: Visit-to-visit variability in lipid has been suggested as an predictor of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). However, no evidence exists on the prognostic value of lipid variability in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). Hypothesis: This prospective cohort study aimed to investigate whether lipid variability affects future MACEs in patients with FH receiving standard lipid-lowering therapy. Methods: A total of 254 patients with FH were consecutively enrolled and followed for MACEs. Variability in triglyceride, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] were evaluated from 3 months after discharge using the standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV) and variability independent of the mean (VIM). Results: During a mean follow-up of 49 months, 22 (8.7%) events occurred. Visit-to-visit variability in Lp(a) was significantly higher in the MACE group compared to the non-MACE group. In multivariate Cox analysis, only Lp(a) variability parameters were independent predictors for MACEs. The hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals of each 1-SD increase of SD, CV and VIM of Lp(a) were 1.42 (1.12-1.80), 1.50 (1.11-2.02) and 1.60 (1.16-2.22), respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that patients with higher Lp(a) variability presented lower event-free survival (Log-rank p &lt;0.05). The results were consistent in various subgroups. Conclusions: This is the first report to evaluate the prognostic value of lipid variability in real-world patients with FH and showed that Lp(a), but not LDL-C variability, was associated with MACEs, which emphasized the importance of regular lipid monitoring in patients with high risk.

Lipoprotein apheresis and PCSK9 inhibitors for severe familial hypercholesterolaemia: Experience from Australia and New Zealand.

Severe familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) causes premature disability and death due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and is refractory to standard lipid-lowering therapies. Lipoprotein apheresis (LA) has long been a standard of care for patients with severe FH, but is invasive, expensive and time-consuming for patients and their caregivers. Newer drug therapies, including the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors, may reduce the need for LA. We audited the records of 16 patients (eight homozygous, eight heterozygous) treated with LA in Australia and New Zealand, 14 of whom subsequently commenced PCSK9 inhibitor therapy. LA was performed by cascade filtration in all centres. LDL-cholesterol was acutely lowered by 69 ± 7% in patients with homozygous FH and by 72 ± 9% in those with heterozygous FH, representing time-averaged reductions of 36 ± 12% and 34 ± 5%, respectively. LA was well-tolerated, and patients reported comparable quality of life to population and disease-related norms. After commencement of PCSK9 inhibitors, four of seven patients with homozygous FH had meaningful biochemical responses, with a reduction in the frequency of LA permitted in one patient and complete cessation in another. Four of seven patients with heterozygous FH were able to be managed without LA after commencing PCSK9 inhibitors. While PCSK9 inhibitors have reduced the need for LA, some patients with severe FH continue to require LA, and will require it for the foreseeable future. However, emerging therapies, including angiopoetin-like 3 inhibitors, may further reduce the need for LA.

Efficacy of more intensive lipid-lowering therapy on cardiovascular diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundCardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality with incidence rates of 5–10 per 1000 person-years, according to primary prevention studies. To control hyperlipidemia—a major risk factor of cardiovascular disease—initiation of lipid-lowering therapy with therapeutic lifestyle modification or lipid-lowering agent is recommended. Few systematic reviews and meta-analyses are available on lipid-lowering therapy for the primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, the operational definitions of intensive lipid-lowering therapies are heterogeneous. The aim of our study was to investigate whether intensive lipid-lowering therapies reduce greater cardiovascular disease risks in primary prevention settings.MethodsMEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception to March 2019 for randomized controlled trials. We used random effects model for overall pooled risk ratio (RR) estimation with cardiovascular events of interest and all-cause mortality rate for the intensive lipid-lowering group using the standard lipid-lowering group as the reference. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was used for quality assessment.ResultsA total of 18 randomized controlled trials were included. The risk reductions in cardiovascular outcomes and all-cause mortality associated with more intensive vs. standard lipid-lowering therapy across all trials were 24 and 10%, respectively (RR 0.76, 95% confidence interval 0.68–0.85; RR 0.90, 95% confidence interval 0.83–0.97); however, the risk reduction varied by baseline LDL-C level in the trial. A greater risk reduction was noted with higher LDL-C level. Intensive lipid-lowering for coronary heart disease protection was more pronounced in the non-diabetic populations than in the diabetic populations.ConclusionsMore intensive LDL-C lowering was associated with a greater reduction in risk of total and cardiovascular mortality in trials of patients with higher baseline LDL-C levels than less intensive LDL-C lowering. Intensive lipid-lowering was associated with a significant risk reduction of coronary heart disease and must be considered even in the non-diabetic populations.

Effect of Ezetimibe + Pitavastatin on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (from the HIJ-PROPER Study)

Lipid-lowering therapy is necessary to reduce cardiovascular event rates in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of intensive lipid-lowering therapy, which comprised pitavastatin and ezetimibe, on patients with STEMI. We therefore undertook a post hoc subanalysis of the HIJ-PROPER study's data that examined the clinical outcomes of the patients with dyslipidemia and STEMI (n = 880) who received pitavastatin and ezetimibe therapy (intensive lipid-lowering therapy group) or pitavastatin monotherapy (standard lipid-lowering therapy group), and we evaluated their cardiovascular events. The primary end point was a composite of all-cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, unstable angina, and ischemia-driven revascularization. During the median 3.4-year follow-up period, the cumulative rates of the primary end point were 31.9% and 39.7% in the intensive lipid-lowering therapy and standard lipid-lowering therapy groups, respectively (hazard ratio [HR], 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.62 to 0.97; p = 0.02). Compared with the standard lipid-lowering therapy group, the intensive lipid-lowering therapy group had significantly lower all-cause death (6.9% vs 3.2%; HR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.23 to 1.84; p = 0.01) and nonfatal stroke (2.9% vs 1.6%; HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.97; p = 0.02) rates. Patients with pitavastatin and ezetimibe therapy, as compared with pitavastatin monotherapy, had a lower cardiovascular event in STEMI patients. In conclusion, adding ezetimibe to statin therapy may be beneficial for patients with dyslipidemia and STEMI.

Effect of Intensive and Standard Lipid-Lowering Therapy on the Progression of Stroke in Patients With Coronary Artery Syndromes: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

This meta-analysis demonstrated the effect of intensive versus standard statins on the risk of stroke in patients with coronary artery syndromes (CAS). PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane library, and clinicaltrials.gov were searched, and the retrieved studies were undertaken for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) throughout September 2018. Studies that were designed as RCTs and recruited at least 1000 CAS patients followed up greater than 1 year were eligible for this study. The summary relative risk with the 95% confidence interval was used as an effect estimate and calculated using the random-effects model. Five RCTs comprising a total of 39,612 coronary syndrome patients with reported 1236 stroke events were included in this meta-analysis. The summary result indicated a 14% reduction in the risk of stroke in CAS patients receiving intensive statin therapy as compared to standard statin therapy. The significant differences mainly occurred in mean age ≥60 years (P = 0.007), percentage of males ≥80% (P = 0.011), percentage diabetes mellitus ≥ 15% (P = 0.018), percentage hypertension ≥50% (P = 0.030), percentage of current smokers <30% (P = 0.011), percentage of prior myocardial infarction ≥50% (P = 0.011), percentage of peripheral arterial disease ≥10% (P = 0.030), patients with stable CAS (P = 0.011), patients using atorvastatin (P = 0.015), follow-up duration ≥3 years (P = 0.011), and study with moderate quality (P = 0.013). Intensive statin therapy should be considered for CAS patients at high risk of stroke events. Further large-scale RCT should be conducted to verify the results of stratified analysis in this study.