RNA therapeutics
Lp(a)-targeted siRNAs and ASOs show promise in phase 2, review of residual cardiovascular risk (Cureus 2026)
Original title: Lipoprotein(a): Role in Cardiovascular Risk and Advances in Novel Therapeutics
Review of lipoprotein(a) as a genetically determined contributor to residual cardiovascular risk, driven by proatherogenic, proinflammatory, prothrombotic and procalcific properties of its unique apolipoprotein(a) component. No approved Lp(a)-targeted therapy currently exists, so management still centres on aggressive control of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Novel siRNA and antisense oligonucleotide therapies targeting Lp(a) have shown promising results in phase 2 trials, with multiple agents now in phase 3 trials that the authors hope will finally address this unresolved contributor to cardiovascular risk.
Original abstract
Despite adequate primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events, significant residual risk remains. Part of this risk has been attributed to lipoprotein(a) (Lp{a}). This is a genetically determined lipoprotein that has been linked to cardiovascular disease. Its variability and pathogenicity are attributed to the unique apolipoprotein(a) (apo{a}) within the molecule. This protein has been related to proatherogenic, proinflammatory, prothrombotic, and procalcific mechanisms that favor cardiovascular disease (CVD). Although it is recognized as a causal factor in disease, there are currently no approved therapeutics targeting this lipoprotein. Current management focuses on aggressive control of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Novel therapeutics targeting Lp(a), including small interfering ribonucleic acids (siRNAs) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), showed promising results in phase 2 trials. Multiple therapeutics are currently undergoing phase 3 trials, promising to bring a solution to this unsolved issue.
Summary written by lp-a.org from the published abstract; figures as published. Page updated 17 August 2026. Methods.