This Mendelian Randomization (MR) study explored the causal relationship between lipid-lowering drugs and asthma by analyzing genetic proxies for common cholesterol-lowering therapy targets. Variants in APOC3 and LPL—linked to triglyceride levels—were associated with an increased risk of asthma, while LDLR-driven LDL cholesterol levels showed a protective effect. Additionally, elevated LDL-C levels via APOB, HMGCR, and NPC1L1, and higher TG levels through LPL, were linked to reduced lung function (FEV1/FVC). These findings suggest lipid metabolism may influence asthma risk and severity, highlighting potential therapeutic roles for certain lipid-lowering agents.
The study supports drug repurposing as a faster, cost-effective alternative to traditional drug development for asthma management. While statins have known anti-inflammatory benefits, this is the first MR study to evaluate a wider array of lipid-lowering drugs in asthma. Some agents, like mipomersen and ezetimibe, showed promise for improving lung function. However, more experimental and clinical studies are needed to confirm efficacy and understand underlying mechanisms. Despite some limitations—such as European-only data and lack of long-term exposure insights—the findings open new possibilities for targeting lipid pathways in asthma treatment.
Reference: Zhang Y, Jiang Z, Chen L, et al. Repurposing lipid-lowering drugs on asthma and lung function: evidence from a genetic association analysis. J Transl Med. 2024 Jul 3;22(1):615. doi: 10.1186/s12967-024-05359-5. PMID: 38961500; PMCID: PMC11223406.
