by Baylor College of Medicine researchers have reported promising findings from a study on a novel therapy that effectively lowers triglyceride levels in individuals diagnosed with mixed hyperlipidemia, a condition characterized by the coexistence of high Triglycerides and cholesterol. The study’s results were published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
The research reveals that the drug plozasiran, which targets ApoC3, significantly reduces triglyceride levels without significantly affecting LDL cholesterol. ApoC3 is a crucial regulator of lipoprotein particles responsible for carrying triglyceride and cholesterol remnants.
Dr. Christie Ballantyne, professor of medicine and chief of cardiovascular research at Baylor, shared her perspective on the significance of addressing elevated triglycerides, stating, “Triglycerides remain a challenge for many patients I encounter in my practice. Although statins are highly effective in managing high LDL cholesterol, there are still a considerable number of people who struggle with persistent high triglycerides.”
The discovery of specific genes linked to increased triglycerides has paved the way for new therapeutic targets, such as plozasiran. This RNA interference drug specifically targets RNA molecules responsible for APOC3 production, a key regulator of triglyceride-rich lipoprotein metabolism. High levels of APOC3, which can be attributed to genetics or metabolic factors like diet, obesity, and diabetes, hinder the breakdown of triglycerides and can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease.
The study’s findings offer hope for individuals with mixed hyperlipidemia, as the new therapy could potentially reduce their risk of cardiovascular events by effectively addressing their triglyceride levels.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it.
