LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) also known as the bad cholesterol accumulates in the walls of blood vessels that can clog arteries and make them less flexible. Higher LDL levels put you at greater risk for a heart disease and stroke. Another condition called peripheral artery disease can develop when plaque buildup narrows an artery supplying blood to the legs.
The body creates cholesterol to make vitamin D, some hormones and some of the molecules that help us break down food. Food contains cholesterol too.
According to Business Standard, 73.5 million adults in the United States have high LDL cholesterol. Diet and exercise has been known approach but many still prefer statins in keeping cholesterol level down. Muscle pain, increased risk of diabetes and cognitive loss have been recognized serious side effects of statins.
A new research has shown promising results of the new vaccine to reduce levels of 'bad' cholesterol in in mice and small monkey suggesting it could be an effective treatment in humans. The vaccine could give a distinct option for statins, by targeting a protein that controls cholesterol levels in the blood.
The new vaccine targets a protein called PCSK9 which regulates the cholesterol in the blood.
According to the authors of the research from University of New Mexico and the National Institutes of health in the United States, the vaccine proved be more efficient and less harmful than statins.
Dr Alan Remaley, one of the authors of the study, from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health said: 'Although they are effective in many people, they do have side effects and don't work for everyone.
'The results of our vaccine were very striking, and suggest it could be a powerful new treatment for high cholesterol.'
The vaccine should cost less than statins.
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