PCSK9 and inhibitor. Computer illustration of a molecule of the enzyme proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9, blue) bound to a PCSK9 in
PCSK9 and inhibitor. Computer illustration of a molecule of the enzyme proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9, blue) bound to a PCSK9 inhibitor antibody (green). When there are high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL, 'bad' cholesterol) in the blood it builds up on the sides of blood vessels hardening them, a condition named atherosclerosis. This narrows the blood vessels and may block them. LDL receptors recognise and bind to LDL molecules to remove them from the bloodstream. When PCSK9 binds to an LDLR, the receptor is destroyed along with the LDL particle. But if PCSK9 does not bind, the receptor can return to the surface of the cell and remove more cholesterol. Monoclonal antibodies that bind to and inhibit PCSK9 are being used to reduce the amount of cholesterol in the blood by improving the liver's ability to recycle LDLRs.
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Photo credit: © MAURIZIO DE ANGELIS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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