Interleukin-6 is a major regulator of lipoprotein(a) in humans in vivo

Aims: Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] consists of an atherogenic LDL particle and pro-thrombotic apolipoprotein (a) [apo(a)] and has been considered as an independent cardiovascular risk factor. Recently, we have shown that inhibition of IL-6-signalling in humans in vivo lowers Lp(a) serum concentrations. Since there is currently no pharmaceutical agent available to reduce high Lp(a) levels, inhibition of IL-6 by neutralizing antibodies (e.g. tocilizumab) might be a future promising therapeutic option. Therefore, the effect of IL-6 on apo(a) was further examined on a molecular level. Methodology: Human liver cells were…