Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 genetic screening using the vervet (Chlorocebus aethiops) model

Abstract

Background: The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) gene has come to prominence due to its reported function in the clearance of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The vervet monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops) was utilized to study the genetics of PCSK9 gene. Method: Sixteen vervet monkeys were selected to screen for possible PCSK9 polymorphisms and to determine gene expression. Results: Four PCSK9 sequence variants (T112T, R148S, H177N and G635G) were identified and three of these variants (H177N, R148S, and G635G) were categorized as loss of function mutations. A decline in gene expression levels was also observed in animals harboring these three variants. Although the selected variants might have affected the level of gene expression in the selected animals, individual variation was also noticed in some of these individuals with the G635G variant. Conclusion: Based on the findings obtained from this study, it is suggestive that the activity of PCSK9 was hindered.