PCSK9 pathway-noncoding RNAs crosstalk: Emerging opportunities for novel therapeutic approaches in inflammatory atherosclerosis.

A variety of mechanisms contribute to the occurrence and development of inflammatory atherosclerosis (IA), resulting in cardiovascular disease. PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/ kexin type 9) has now been recognized as a key player in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Following PCSK9 activation, LDL receptors (LDLR) are degraded and as a result, LDL cholesterol (LDLC) levels are increased.