Core Insights - The article highlights the significant health benefits of the star oil vine (美藤果), particularly its effectiveness in lowering uric acid levels, blood lipids, and blood pressure, as well as its potential in alleviating dry eye syndrome and Alzheimer's disease [1][2][3]. Group 1: Health Benefits - The star oil vine is recognized for its diverse medicinal properties, with its fruit kernels being a key source of value due to their high unsaturated fatty acid and quality protein content [7][8]. - The unsaturated fatty acids in the fruit exhibit strong health benefits, effectively lowering blood lipids and improving conditions such as dry eye syndrome and dermatitis, with initial positive effects noted for Alzheimer's disease [8][9]. - The protein content in the fruit is notably high, particularly in albumin, which is rich in sulfur amino acids, making it suitable for use in sports drinks and protein supplements, significantly enhancing immune function [10][12]. Group 2: Research and Development - The research team led by Professor Du Bing has published 16 SCI papers and 48 Chinese papers, establishing a leading position in the study of the star oil vine [14]. - The team has developed a preparation technology for star oil vine peptides, identifying their structure and obtaining a patent, with a notable discovery of the peptides' excellent uric acid-lowering capabilities [15][16]. Group 3: Innovative Formulations - The combination of dried tangerine peel (陈皮) with star oil vine has shown remarkable synergistic effects, enhancing both the taste and efficacy of the oil [21][22]. - The innovative formulation of tangerine peel oil, star oil vine oil, and lutein has demonstrated a superior effect in improving dry eye syndrome, achieving a "1+1+1 > 3" outcome [23][24].

Core Viewpoint - The increasing levels of blood lipids and the prevalence of dyslipidemia among Chinese individuals highlight the need for better management of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) to reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) [1][2][3] Group 1: Importance of LDL-C Management - LDL-C is identified as a major contributor to high blood lipids and a significant risk factor for ASCVD, emphasizing the importance of lowering LDL-C levels to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases [1][2] - Experts advocate for a targeted and stratified approach to blood lipid management, stressing the need for public awareness and education regarding the significance of monitoring LDL-C levels [1][2] Group 2: Lifestyle and Treatment Recommendations - Lifestyle modifications, including dietary control and physical activity, are crucial as approximately two-thirds of LDL-C comes from external sources [2][3] - Regular monitoring and risk assessment of LDL-C levels are essential, especially for high-risk populations, who may require more stringent control and treatment of underlying conditions like hypertension and diabetes [2][3] Group 3: Misconceptions and Long-term Treatment - There is a prevalent misconception among patients that achieving target LDL-C levels means discontinuing medication, which can lead to adverse cardiovascular events [3][4] - Continuous and scientifically guided lipid-lowering therapy is vital for stabilizing LDL-C levels and preventing cardiovascular incidents, particularly in patients with existing ASCVD [3][4] Group 4: Current Treatment Landscape - The treatment rates and achievement rates for lipid-lowering therapy among ASCVD patients need improvement, with many still relying on traditional statin medications [4] - While statins are effective, some patients may have contraindications, necessitating the use of non-statin alternatives for optimal LDL-C management [4]

Core Viewpoint - A new study published in Nature Medicine introduces a targeted epigenetic editor (PCSK9-EE) that significantly and sustainably lowers low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in transgenic mice and crabs monkeys, raising hopes for lifelong lipid reduction in hyperlipidemia patients [1][6]. Group 1: Research Findings - The PCSK9-EE can almost completely suppress PCSK9 levels in the bloodstream of transgenic mice for at least one year after a single administration, while in crabs monkeys, it can reduce PCSK9 protein levels by approximately 90% and LDL-C levels by up to 70% for at least three months [5]. - PCSK9-EE operates through epigenetic modification of DNA methylation, silencing the expression of the PCSK9 gene in the liver, thus lowering LDL-C levels [4]. Group 2: Health Implications - Cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease and stroke, are closely linked to elevated LDL-C levels, which have risen in global health risk rankings from the 14th to the 8th position between 1990 and 2019 [2]. - Factors contributing to high LDL-C levels include poor lifestyle choices, genetic predisposition, and age-related changes, which increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases [3]. Group 3: Current Treatment Landscape - Traditional lipid-lowering medications, primarily statins, have limitations, including inadequate LDL-C level control and potential side effects like muscle pain and elevated liver enzymes [4]. - Newer PCSK9 inhibitors have shown significant advantages in lipid management and are already in clinical use in China, with options for less frequent dosing [4]. Group 4: Future Considerations - Despite promising animal study results, PCSK9-EE has not yet entered clinical trials, and its long-term efficacy and safety in humans remain to be validated [6][7]. - The potential for PCSK9-EE to achieve "lifelong lipid reduction" is considered premature, with experts suggesting a more cautious interpretation of its benefits until further research is conducted [6][7].