Cholesterol-Related

PCSK9 is a critical regulator of cholesterol metabolism through its interaction with the hepatic LDL receptor (LDLR). PCSK9 is a kexin (that is,an endopeptidase) found in kidneys, liver, and intestine.  It binds to the EGFR-like domain of LDLR, leading to LDLR degradation. Circulating PCSK9 binds to the extracellular EGF-like domain of LDLR, followed by endocytosis and lysosomal degradation of the PCSK9-LDLR complex. Inhibiting the PCSK9-LDLR interaction is an increasingly desirable drug target for lowering LDL-cholesterol levels because of the great demand for new drugs to replace or supplement statins.  The newly added research tools are invaluable for studying cholesterol metabolism, atherosclerosis, stroke, heart disease, and other diseases related to cardiovascular disorders. Specifically, BPS' PCSK9 neutralizing antibody, useful as a positive control for inhibition.