Effects of Inhibition or Deletion of PCSK9 (Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9) on Intracerebral Hemorrhage Volumes in Mice

Anti-PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) antibodies lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and significantly reduce cardiovascular end points.1 Safety concerns were raised as ultra-low levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol can be achieved. Low cholesterol levels are associated with an increased rate of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH),2 and hematoma growth was increased with low serum cholesterol.3,4 The objective of this study was to test the effects of PCSK9 inhibition or genetic deletion on hematoma volume after experimental ICH collagenase model) using 3 different strain of mice (ie, hypercholesterolemic, normocholesterolemic, PCSK9−/− versus controls).