apolipoprotein A-I Milano

Apolipoprotein A-I Milano is a naturally occurring variant of apolipoprotein A-I, first discovered in individuals in Limone sul Garda, Italy. It features a single amino acid substitution (cysteine for arginine at position 173), leading to dimerization and uniquely altered lipid behavior. When formulated as a recombinant protein (ETC-216, later MDCO-216) complexed with phospholipids to mimic nascent HDL, it acts as a high-density lipoprotein (HDL) mimetic. It promotes reverse cholesterol transport and rapidly reduces atheroma burden in animal models and early-phase clinical trials, showing significant regression of coronary atherosclerosis. Mechanistically, it works by facilitating the removal of cholesterol from arterial plaques directly[1][3][5][6].

Brand names

ETC-216ETC216ETC 216MDCO-216MDCO216MDCO 216

Other names

ApoA-I Milanoapolipoprotein AI Milano