ApoC-III as Therapeutic Target: Is it Primetime for Clinical Use?

Purpose of review: Apolipoprotein C-III (ApoC-III) plays a pivotal role in triglyceride (TG) metabolism by inhibiting lipoprotein lipase and hepatic clearance of TG-rich lipoproteins, contributing to hypertriglyceridaemia and elevated cardiovascular risk, as well as a high risk of acute pancreatitis. This review aims to summarize current evidence on ApoC-III inhibition strategies.

Recent findings: Current treatments targeting Apo C-III include two antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) (volanesorsen and olezarsen), and a small interfering RNA (siRNA) (plozasiran). Volanesorsen, a second-generation ASO, has shown effectiveness in reducing TG and preventing acute pancreatitis, especially in patients with familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS). However, its use is limited by the risk of thrombocytopenia, likely related to its chemical structure rather than ApoC-III inhibition itself. Olezarsen, a third-generation ASO with GalNAc conjugation for targeted liver delivery, offers an improved safety profile and strong efficacy in lowering TG and atherogenic lipoproteins levels, making it a promising candidate for a broader clinical use. Plozasiran, a GalNAc-conjugated siRNA, has shown robust and sustained TG reductions with a favorable safety profile, and early data suggest it may also reduce acute pancreatitis risk. ApoC-III inhibition represents an innovative and effective approach in managing hypertriglyceridaemia and its complications. Further outcome-driven trials are essential to define its role in cardiovascular risk reduction.