PCSK9 and hyperlipidemia: The increased NT-proBNP levels may reflect further increased wall stress.15 PCSK9 is involved in degradation of the LDLR (low-density lipoprotein receptor)21 and might therefore reflect hyperlipidemia or patients’ statin treatment.22 MMP2 acts in the fibrotic pathway23 and is involved in cardiac remodeling.24 Both SPON1 and AZU1 continued to be downregulated at t8w.