Regression in carotid plaque lipid content and neovasculature with PCSK9 inhibition: A time course study

Background and aims: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors reduce cardiovascular events, but their effects on atherosclerotic plaque remain elusive. Using serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we studied changes in carotid plaque lipid content and neovasculature under PCSK9 inhibition with alirocumab.

Methods: Among patients with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) ≥70 mg/dl but ineligible for high-dose statin therapy, those with lipid core on carotid MRI were identified to receive alirocumab 150 mg every 2 weeks. Follow-up MRI was performed at 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. Pre- and post-contrast MRI were acquired to measure percent lipid core volume (% lipid core). Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI was acquired to measure the extravasation rate of gadolinium contrast (K^trans), a marker of plaque neovasculature.

Results: Of 31 patients enrolled, 27 completed the study (mean age: 69 ± 9; male: 67%). From 9.8% at baseline, % lipid core was progressively reduced to 8.4% at 3 months, 7.5% at 6 months, and 7.2% at 12 months (p = 0.014 for trend), which was accompanied by a progressive increase in % fibrous tissue (p = 0.009) but not % calcification (p = 0.35). K^trans was not reduced until 12 months (from 0.069 ± 0.019 min^-1 to 0.058 ± 0.020 min^-1; p = 0.029). Lumen and wall areas did not change significantly during the study period.

Conclusions: Regression in plaque composition and neovasculature were observed under PCSK9 inhibition on carotid MRI, which provides unique insight into the biological process of plaque stabilization with disease-modifying therapies.