Obikeze, KenechukwuChauke, Chesa GiftMagwebu, Zandisiwe EmiliaNgqaneka, Thobile2021-03-032024-05-152021-03-032024-05-152020https://hdl.handle.net/10566/15113Magister Pharmaceuticae - MPharmCardiovascular diseases (CVDs) such as ischaemic heart diseases, heart failure and stroke remain a major cause of death globally. Various deep-rooted factors influence CVD development; these include but are not limited to elevated blood lipids, high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. A considerable number of proteins are involved directly and indirectly in the transport, maintenance and elimination of plasma lipids, including high and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C and LDL-C). There are several mechanisms involved in the removal of LDL particles from systemic circulation. One such mechanism is associated with the gene that encodes proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), which has become an exciting therapeutic target for the reduction of residual risk of CVDs. Currently, statins are the mainstay treatment to reduce LDL-C, and a need exists to further develop more effective LDL-C-lowering drugs that might supplement statins. This study was aimed at contributing to the generation of knowledge regarding the effect of niacin in reducing LDL levels through PCSK9 interaction.enAtherosclerosisCardiovascular disease (CVD)High-density lipoprotein (HDL)LipidsLipoproteinsUniversity of Western Cape