In a groundbreaking development, researchers at The University of New Mexico School of Medicine have unveiled a potential game-changer in the fight against high cholesterol. The newly developed vaccine, highlighted in a recent study published in NPJ Vaccines, emerges as an affordable alternative to mitigate “bad” LDL cholesterol, notorious for creating hazardous plaques that can obstruct blood vessels.
Led by Bryce Chackerian, Ph.D., Regents’ Professor in the Department of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology, the research team demonstrated that their vaccine could effectively lower LDL cholesterol levels, rivaling the efficacy of costly PCSK9 inhibitors. Chackerian expressed a vision for a more economical and universally applicable approach, especially in regions where resources for expensive therapies are limited.
Cardiologist Abinash Achrekar, M.D., MPH, who serves as the vice chair and professor in the UNM Department of Internal Medicine, shared personal insights into the challenges of accessing treatments for high cholesterol. Diagnosed with high cholesterol at a young age, Achrekar has navigated various treatments, including widely used statins and the pricey PCSK9 monoclonal shot, which requires prior authorization and poses financial hurdles.
ROBUST IMMUNE RESPONSE
Chackerian’s innovative vaccine targets the PCSK9 protein using a non-infectious virus particle. By attaching minuscule portions of the PCSK9 protein to the virus particle’s surface, the vaccine prompts a robust immune response, resulting in significant cholesterol reductions—up to 30% in animal tests. This reduction correlates with a decreased risk of heart disease.
Despite successful trials on mice and monkeys over the past decade, Chackerian acknowledges the challenges ahead. Securing funding for vaccine manufacturing and subsequent human clinical trials, a process requiring years and substantial financial investment, is the next critical step. However, the potential benefits are immense—a pure, safe, and affordable vaccine that could revolutionize cholesterol management.
AFFORDABLE COST
Chackerian estimates the vaccine’s cost to be below $100 per dose, leveraging straightforward and cost-effective bacteria in its production. With a lasting efficacy of close to a year, each dose could potentially be priced in the tens of dollars, making it an accessible global solution to combat heart disease.
As Chackerian’s team perseveres in their efforts, he envisions having the vaccine available for human use within the next decade, offering hope for a transformative and accessible approach to cholesterol treatment.
