Journal of internal medicine
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The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) enzyme controls blood cholesterol levels by downregulating the expression of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR). Pathogenic lipids (e.g. lipopolysaccharide) are removed from the circulation by an LDLR/PCSK9-dependent mechanism; thus, it has been suggested that PCSK9 inhibitors may be beneficial in the treatment of infections. We measured plasma PCSK9 levels in patients with culture-positive bacteraemia and explored pathogen-dependent and infection site-dependent effects as well as correlations between patient characteristics and outcome. ⋯ Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 is upregulated in blood culture-positive infections. Plasma PCSK9 resembles acute-phase proteins; its expression is induced during an infection, reduced in liver disease and correlates positively with CRP level. We have shown that PCSK9 levels are lower in patients with a fatal prognosis.
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Sarcopenia may worsen disease progression and lead to poor outcomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). ⋯ Low BMI is an important risk factor for COPD development and mortality. Maintaining adequate body weight may reduce the risk for COPD development and mortality.