Beyond cholesterol metabolism: The pleiotropic effects of (PCSK9)

PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9), also known as neural apoptosis-regulated convertase, NARC-1, is a 692-residue extracellular protein that is primarily expressed in the kidneys, liver, and intestine. It plays a critical role in lipid metabolism, specifically by aiding in the degradation of low-density lipoprotein receptors.

The secreted form of PCSK9 binds directly to the LDLR, leading to the degradation of the receptor. Medications used to treat hypercholesterolemia, such as statins, have been found to increase the level of circulating PCSK9. Additionally, inhibiting PCSK9 has been shown to effectively reduce plasma LDL-cholesterol levels. Moreover, PCSK9, initially discovered in the brain, exhibits a widespread presence in various tissues and performs diverse functions, not limited to cholesterol metabolism (1). Recent studies have shown that PCSK9 is involved in various biological functions, including the immune response, haemostasis, glucose metabolism, neuronal survival, and many others (1).

MBL International is at the forefront of providing PCSK9 assay kits and reagents to support the advancement of PCSK9 studies.

• Their highly cited PCSK9 ELISA kits are available in mouse and human.
• PCSK9-LDLR in vitro Binding Assay Kit can be used for screening inhibitors of PCSK9-LDLR interaction in vitro.
• Measure active functional PCSK9 in a solid-phase assay system 

REFERENCES:

1. Cesaro, Arturo, et al. “Beyond cholesterol metabolism: the pleiotropic effects of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). Genetics, mutations, expression, and perspective for long‐term inhibition.” Biofactors 46.3 (2020): 367-380.

Information provided by MBL.

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