Evolocumab, a PCSK9 inhibitor, protects human endothelial cells against H2O2-induced oxidative stress.

Context: Recent surveys have shown an association between proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and oxidative stress.Objective: In this investigation, the effect of evolocumab an anti-PCSK9 antibody was assessed against oxidative damage caused by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC).Material and methods: Viability of HUVEC was measured by MTT assay. Hydroperoxides and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were detected in HUVEC that pre-treated with evolocumab and, then exposed to H2O2.Results: Evolocumab significantly prevented the cytotoxicity induced by H2O2 at the concentrations of 5-100 µg/ml. Pre-treatment of HUVEC with evolocumab reduced hydroperoxides and MDA levels and also increased FRAP value in intra- and extra-cellular mediums compared with H2O2 stimulated cells at different concentration ranges.Conclusion: This study displayed anti-oxidative and cytoprotective activities of evolocumab against oxidative damage caused by H2O2 in endothelial cells.