Remnant cholesterol as a new lipid-lowering target to reduce cardiovascular events

Purpose of review: Remnant cholesterol has become increasingly recognized as a direct contributor to the development of atherosclerosis and as an additional marker of cardiovascular risk. This review aims to summarize the pathophysiological mechanisms, and the current evidence base from epidemiological investigations and genetic studies that support a causal link between remnant cholesterol and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Current and novel therapeutic approaches to target remnant cholesterol are discussed.

Recent findings: A recent Mendelian randomization study of over 12 000 000 single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with high levels of remnant cholesterol, demonstrated a genetic association between remnant cholesterol and adverse cardiovascular events among 958 434 participants.

Summary: In this light, the emerging role of remnant cholesterol as an independent lipid risk marker warrants a reevaluation of lipid management guidelines and underscores the potential for novel therapeutic targets in cardiovascular disease prevention.