Abstract |
Inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A ( HMG-CoA) reductase, statins, have been demonstrated to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with a wide range of cholesterol levels. Numerous cholesterol-independent effects of statins that may limit atherosclerosis are probably related to inhibition of the geranylgeranylation of GTP-binding intracellular signaling proteins and involve: improved vasoreactivity, mostly through increased NO bioavailability; decreased expression of proinflammatory cytokines ( interleukin-6, interleukin-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor alpha), C-reactive protein, chemokines, matrix metalloproteinases, and tissue factor with the subsequent inhibition of thrombin generation; reduced platelet activity; increased thrombomodulin expression; enhanced fibrinolysis, regulation of angiogenesis and immunomodulation. However, the clinical relevance of multiple protective effects induced by statins has not been clarified yet.
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Authors | Anetta Undas, Magdalena Celińska-Löwenhoff, Marcin Kaczor, Jacek Musial |
Journal | Thrombosis and haemostasis
(Thromb Haemost)
Vol. 91
Issue 6
Pg. 1065-77
(Jun 2004)
ISSN: 0340-6245 [Print] Germany |
PMID | 15175791
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
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Chemical References |
- Cardiotonic Agents
- Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
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Topics |
- Cardiotonic Agents
(pharmacology, therapeutic use)
- Cardiovascular Diseases
(drug therapy, pathology)
- Endothelium, Vascular
(drug effects, pathology)
- Humans
- Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
(pharmacology, therapeutic use)
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular
(drug effects, pathology)
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