THE INVOLVEMENT PROPROTEIN CONVERTASE SUBTILISIN/KEXIN OF TYPE 9 IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF ATHEROSCLEROSIS (LITERATURE REVIEW)

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is now considered an important contributor to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. The article describes the history of the discovery of PCSK9, the structure, functions and stages of biosynthesis of this molecule. PCSK9, through promoting lysosomal degradation of hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), can decrease the clearance of plasma LDL, leading to hypercholesterolemia and formation atherosclerotic plaque formation. PCSK9 is a new therapeutic target for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. New lipid-lowering drugs – PCSK9 inhibitors – are more effective than statins. Some studies have shown the involvement of PCSK9 in the inflammatory mechanisms of atherosclerosis.