Abstract
HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methyglutaryl coenzyme A) reductase inhibitors (statins) reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Although statins work in part via lipid modulation, several findings of statins indicate they have broader properties, including alteration of inflammatory pathways. Ex-vivo activities of statins include suppression of adhesion molecule expression, MHC class II expression, and effects on reactive oxygen and nitrogen intermediate production. Statins also modify apoptosis in smooth muscle and endothelial cells leading to altered vascular function and neovascularization. These properties offer the potential to modify the states of chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis with drugs that show minimal toxic effects in both the short and long term.
