There are two types of cholesterol, which is a type of fat found in blood that is essential for various bodily functions, including the production of hormones and vitamin D, as well as to aid in digestion:
- LDL (low-density lipoprotein), often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, can lead to health issues.
- HDL (high-density lipoprotein), known as “good” cholesterol, helps remove “bad” cholesterol from the bloodstream.
There’s also a type of fatty particle that circulates in the bloodstream called Lipoprotein(a). It’s similar to LDL cholesterol, but more dangerous. High levels of Lp(a) can double or even triple a person’s risk of a heart attack.
There is no existing cure for Lp(a), which is an inherited trait, but several promising therapies are in development.
Thomas Dominowski, 73, of Scottsdale is testing one of those therapies in a clinical trial in the Cardiovascular Research Division of HonorHealth Research Institute. The clinical trial is supervised by Cardiologist Tabitha Moe, M.D.
Thomas was diagnosed with elevated Lp(a) in May 2023 and was enrolled in the Amgen 890 clinical trial, testing if a drug called Olpasiran could reduce the risk of clogged arteries.
Clinical trial follows double bypass
He knows about clogged arteries. One of the main arteries to his heart was found to be 90 percent clogged about four years ago, resulting in double-bypass heart surgery. Doctors then suggested he would be a good candidate for the Amgen 890 clinical trial. He has received a shot of Olpasiran in his stomach every 8-12 weeks for the past 2 ½ years. He expects to be on the clinical trial for at least another year.
But, until the study is complete, Thomas won’t know for sure if he is receiving the drug, or a placebo.
Interestingly, he has not noticed any difference in his athletic performance or how he feels in general — neither before nor after his heart surgery, nor before or after starting his participation in the clinical trial.
Thomas used to play tennis several times a week without any shortness of breath. He still plays several times a week, though now he sometimes plays pickleball or runs. He remains symptom-free, other than elevated Lp(a) levels.
“I haven’t had the least reaction to this. Nothing at all,” said Thomas, who hopes his participation in the clinical trial will somehow benefit his children and other members of his family who might inherit the elevated Lp(a) condition.
Born and raised in Pittsburgh, where he was owner of an independent, nationwide trucking company, Thomas moved to Arizona about 16 years ago. He retired from his logistics business about 5 years ago.
Thomas may not know, for now, how he is doing in the clinical trial, but he is glad to participate in it because of the care he receives at the Institute.
“The nurses are the backbone of the operation. They are so nice, and so professional, and so easy to talk to. They really are special people. I enjoy going down to see them. It makes my day.”
