An experimental drug could be game-changing for millions of Americans with a higher genetic risk of cardiovascular disease.
Lp(a)is a form of LDL that can similarly raise the risk of plaque buildup.
But unlike classic LDL, Lp(a) levels are largely determined by our genetics, not lifestyle.
Too much LDL or Lp(a) can raise a person’s risk of plaque build-up in their arteries, which then increases their risk of heart attacks and strokes.© Sakurra via Shutterstock
In recent years, scientists have developed siRNA-based drugs that work on the same principle, such as lepodisiran.
Lepodisiran inhibits the livers production of apolipoprotein(a), a key component of Lp(a).
And the last group only received placebo.
Everyone given lepodisiran experienced a reduction in Lp(a) compared to placebo.
The findings werepublishedin the New England Journal of Medicine.
So there will need to be more research to confirm these findings.
And given how dramatic these results are, outside experts are understandably excited about the drugs future.
These drugs have the potential to nearly eliminate that lipoprotein.
Eli Lilly has already started to enroll volunteers for itsPhase 3 trialof lepodisiran.
If the drug continues to perform as hoped, it could become the latest accomplishment for siRNA-based therapies.
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