Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin 9 (PCSK9) Promotes Macrophage Activation via LDL Receptor-Independent Mechanisms.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Activated macrophages contribute to the pathogenesis of vascular disease. Vein graft failure is a major clinical problem with limited therapeutic options. PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9) increases low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol levels via LDL receptor (LDLR) degradation. The role of PCSK9 in macrophage activation and vein graft failure is largely unknown, especially through LDLR-independent mechanisms. This study aimed to explore a novel mechanism of macrophage activation and vein graft disease induced by circulating PCSK9 in an LDLR-independent fashion.

Methods

We used Ldlr^-/- mice to examine the LDLR-independent roles of circulating PCSK9 in experimental vein grafts. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector encoding a gai

SUBMITTER: Katsuki S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9973449 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature