Liver-specific ATP-citrate lyase inhibition by bempedoic acid decreases LDL-C and attenuates atherosclerosis.

Lowering Cholesterol with Bempedoic Acid: A New Hope for Atherosclerosis?

The field of cardiovascular health is constantly searching for new ways to combat the threat of atherosclerosis, a condition that hardens arteries and can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Statins, the current go-to medication for lowering LDL cholesterol, a key player in atherosclerosis, are often effective but can unfortunately cause muscle-related side effects. Enter bempedoic acid, a new drug that aims to lower LDL cholesterol with a different mechanism. This research investigates the effectiveness of bempedoic acid and its potential to circumvent the muscle-related side effects of statins.

A Prodrug that Targets ACL and Upregulates LDL Receptors

The researchers found that bempedoic acid is a prodrug, meaning it requires activation within the body to become effective. This activation occurs thanks to an enzyme called ACSVL1. Once activated, bempedoic acid inhibits ACL (ATP-citrate lyase), a key enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis. This inhibition leads to an increase in LDL receptors, which are like tiny vacuum cleaners that mop up LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. This results in a reduction of LDL cholesterol levels and a decrease in the progression of atherosclerosis. The researchers emphasize that this effect on LDL receptors is independent of AMPK, another enzyme known to play a role in cholesterol regulation.

Bempedoic Acid: A Potential Solution to Muscle Toxicity?

One of the key findings is that ACSVL1, the enzyme necessary for bempedoic acid activation, is absent in skeletal muscle. This absence could potentially explain why bempedoic acid may avoid the muscle toxicity associated with statins. This discovery could be a game-changer for patients who struggle with statin side effects.

Dr. Camel's Conclusion

This study is a ray of hope in the battle against atherosclerosis. Bempedoic acid, a new drug that works by targeting ACL and upregulating LDL receptors, shows promise in reducing LDL cholesterol levels and potentially avoiding muscle toxicity. It is still early days for bempedoic acid, but the results suggest that this drug may become a valuable tool for managing cardiovascular risk.