Abstract

Lowering LDL-C: What it means for atherosclerosis and how low to go

Author(s): Anastasia V. Poznyak, Vasily N. Sukhorukov, Ilya I. Eremin, Irina I. Nadelyaeva, Alexander N.Orekhov

Atherosclerosis worries scientists and doctors around the world. Being poorly diagnosed, this disease leads to severe consequences, including disability and death. Throughout history, our understanding of the cause-and-effect relationship between cholesterol levels and atherosclerosis has evolved, and more and more groups of lipids have entered the scene. So, for example, for a long time there was a “cholesterol hypothesis of atherosclerosis”, which today has lost its position. Today it is known that “total cholesterol” is not a clear indicator of the disease, but the controversy continues around LDL-related cholesterol. It is considered to be “bad”, atherogenic cholesterol. Indeed, its high levels are associated with cardiovascular risks. In our review, we collected data on LDL-C, its significance in atherosclerosis, and strategies to reduce it, with a particular focus on reducing the risks of ASCVD.