HMG-CoA reductase inhibition by atorvastatin reduces neointimal inflammation in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis

Abstract

In a rabbit atherosclerosis model, atorvastatin diminishes the neointimal inflammation, and this could contribute to the stabilization of the atherosclerotic plaque. This may be an additional explanation for the reduction of acute ischemic events in patients treated with statins.

Stromelysin-1 and Interleukin-6 Gene Promoter Polymorphisms Are Determinants of Asymptomatic Carotid Artery Atherosclerosis

“…There is now evidence to support the view that besides having a major lipid-lowering effect, statins also have an antiinflammatory effect, 39 probably acting through modulation of NF--B activity. 40,41 Thus, part of the reduced influence of the stromelysin genotype on disease progression in treated Mean (95% CI) IMT of carotid bifurcation according to combined genotype of stromelysin-1 5A/6A and IL-6 G/C polymorphisms; 5 and 6 refer to 5A and 6A alleles of stromelysin-1 polymorphism; C and G refer to IL-6 alleles. Adjusted for age, cardiorespiratory fitness, body mass index, smoking, LDL cholesterol, and systolic blood pressure and for sonographers.…”

Statins as antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory agents: A future in rheumatologic therapy?

“…The strength of statin NF-B inhibition varies, however, according to drug, cell type, and stimulus (93)(94)(95). In vivo evidence for statin-induced NF-B repression comes from a rabbit model in which administering atorvastatin to atherogenic rabbits reduces NF-B activation in both arterial smooth muscle and macrophages (96). Down-regulation of Rho-related protein activation is one probable mechanism for this effect, since NF-B is known to be activated via Rho GTPases (97).…”

Increase in circulating endothelial progenitor cells by statin therapy in patients with stable coronary artery disease

“…[1][2][3] Major mechanisms by which lipid lowering is thought to improve outcome include preventing the development of new atherosclerotic lesions and stabilizing existing atherosclerotic plaques. 4 In addition, statins can reduce vascular inflammation, 5 decrease platelet aggregability and thrombus deposition, 6 and increase endotheliumderived nitric oxide production. 7 Most recently, statins have been reported to promote the neovascularization of ischemic tissue in normocholesterolemic animals.…”