DACRA

DACRA (Direct Acting Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein Inhibitors) are a class of drugs that are currently under investigation for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular disease. These drugs work by directly inhibiting the cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP), which is involved in the transport of cholesterol and triglycerides between different lipoprotein particles.

Mechanism of Action

DACRA drugs work by directly inhibiting the CETP. This protein is responsible for transferring cholesteryl esters from high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles. By inhibiting this protein, DACRA drugs increase the levels of HDL cholesterol and decrease the levels of LDL and VLDL cholesterol in the blood.

Clinical Trials

Several DACRA drugs have been tested in clinical trials for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular disease. These include anacetrapib, evacetrapib, and dalcetrapib. However, the results of these trials have been mixed, with some showing significant reductions in LDL cholesterol and increases in HDL cholesterol, and others showing no significant effect.

Potential Side Effects

As with all drugs, DACRA drugs have the potential to cause side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In addition, some studies have suggested that these drugs may increase the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular events.

Future Research

Despite the mixed results of clinical trials, research into DACRA drugs continues. Scientists are currently investigating new ways to enhance the efficacy of these drugs and reduce their potential side effects. This includes the development of new drug delivery systems and the use of combination therapies with other cholesterol-lowering drugs.