PCSK9: a convertase that coordinates LDL catabolism.
The identification and characterization of proprotein convertase subtilisin-like/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) have provided new insights into LDL metabolism and the causal role of LDL in coronary heart disease (CHD). PCSK9 is a secreted protease that mediates degradation of the LDL receptor by interacting with the extracellular domain and targeting the receptor for degradation. Individuals with loss-of-function mutations in PCSK9 have reduced plasma levels of LDL cholesterol and are protected from CHD; these observations have validated PCSK9 as a therapeutic target and suggested new approaches for the treatment and prevention of CHD.
Horton
Jay D
JD
Department of Internal Medicine, The Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9046, USA. jay.horton@utsouthwestern.edu
Cohen
Jonathan C
JC
Hobbs
Helen H
HH
D000818:Animals; D017209:Apoptosis; D001692:Biological Transport; D008078:Cholesterol, LDL / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D011485:Protein Binding; D012697:Serine Endopeptidases / Q000737:chemistry / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D015842:Serine Proteinase Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology
D008078:Cholesterol, LDL; D015842:Serine Proteinase Inhibitors; D012697:Serine Endopeptidases