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

Recent surveys have shown an association between proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and oxidative stress.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).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.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.This study displayed anti-oxidative and cytoprotective activities of evolocumab against oxidative damage caused by H2O2 in endothelial cells.