Identification of a PCSK9-LDLR disruptor peptide with in vivo function

Abstract

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) regulates plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels by promoting hepatic LDL receptor (LDLR) degradation. Therapeutic antibodies that disrupt PCSK9-LDLR binding reduce LDL-C concentrations and cardiovascular disease risk. The epidermal growth factor precursor homology domain A (EGF-A) of the LDLR serves as a primary contact with PCSK9 via a flat interface, presenting a challenge for identifying small molecule PCSK9-LDLR disruptors. We employ an affinity-based screen of 10¹³in vitro-translated macrocyclic peptides to identify high-affinity PCSK9 ligands that utilize a unique, induced-fit pocket and partially disrupt the PCSK9-LDLR interaction. Structure-based design led to molecules with enhanced function and pharmacokinetic properties (e.g., ₁₃PCSK9i). In mice, ₁₃PCSK9i reduces plasma cholesterol levels and increases hepatic LDLR density in a dose-dependent manner. ₁₃PCSK9i functions by a unique, allosteric mechanism and is the smallest molecule identified to date with in vivo PCSK9-LDLR disruptor function.

Keywords: LDL; LDL receptor; PCSK9; macrocycle; protein-protein interaction disruptor; structure.