Another Way to Lower Cardiovascular Risk?

Lipoprotein (a) [LP(a)] is a low-density lipoprotein particle that is mostly produced in hepatocytes and has a heterogeneous structure. Levels of LP(a) are largely determined genetically, and elevated LP(a) is linked to heightened risks for cardiovascular outcomes. Although several drugs are in development to reduce levels, none are FDA approved.

Antisense oligonucleotides, small pieces of DNA or RNA that can bind regions of RNA and block the ability to make proteins, can inhibit hepatocyte production of LP(a). APO(a)-L_Rx, an oligonucleotide targeted at LP(a) messenger RNA, was shown in an early phase 2 study to be associated with a dose-dependent reduction in LP(a) levels. The investigators now present results of another manufacturer-funded…