Basic Science Review: Statin Therapy-Part I: The Pleiotropic Effects of Statins in Cardiovascular Disease
- 19 April 2010
- journal article
- review article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
- Vol. 44 (4), 241-251
- https://doi.org/10.1177/1538574410362922
Abstract
3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG CoA-reductase) inhibitors, otherwise known as statins, are currently the medical treatment of choice for hypercholesterolemia. Hypercholesterolemia is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and statin therapy has led to a significant reduction in morbidity and mortality from adverse cardiac events, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. In addition to achieving a therapeutic decrease in serum cholesterol levels, statin therapy appears to promote other effects that are independent of changes in serum cholesterol. These ‘‘pleiotropic’’ effects include attenuation of vascular inflammation, improved endothelial cell function, stabilization of atherosclerotic plaque, decreased vascular smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation, and inhibition of platelet aggregation. This article is part I of a 2-part review, and it focuses on the pleiotropic effects of statins at the cellular level.Keywords
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