Recombinant PCSK9-VLP expression vectors were constructed by genetically inserting huPCSK9 sequences (amino acids 153–163,188–200, 208–222, and 368–381) by PCR at the N-terminus of asingle-chain dimer version of the MS2 bacteriophage coat protein[20]. All constructs were sequenced to verify correct location andsequence of PCSK9 insert. Recombinant MS2 VLPs were expressedand purified as described [20].