MK-7091

MK-7091 is an investigational, orally bioavailable inhibitor of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) being developed by Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD) for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. PCSK9 is a key regulator of cholesterol metabolism that binds to low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR) on the surface of hepatocytes, promoting their degradation and thereby reducing the liver's ability to clear LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) from the blood. MK-7091 is designed to block the interaction between PCSK9 and LDLR, which increases the recycling of LDLR to the cell surface and enhances the clearance of circulating LDL-C. As an oral therapy, MK-7091 represents a potential alternative to injectable PCSK9-targeted monoclonal antibodies, offering a more convenient administration route for patients with dyslipidemia. The drug is currently in early-phase clinical development to assess its safety, tolerability, and lipid-lowering efficacy.