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Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Differential Effects of Lipid-lowering Drugs in Modulating Morphology of Cholesterol Particles
Published on: November 10, 2017
Non-lipid-related effects of statins
S Bellosta1, N Ferri, F Bernini
1Institute of Pharmacological Sciences, University of Milan, Italy.
Abstract:
The beneficial effects of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) on coronary events have generally been attributed to their hypocholesterolaemic properties. However, as mevalonate and other intermediates of cholesterol synthesis (isoprenoids) are necessary for cell proliferation and other important cell functions, effects other than cholesterol reduction may explain the pharmacological properties of statins. In the present review, we discuss the current knowledge on the nonlipid-related effects of statins, with a special emphasis on their potential benefits in different diseases, such as atherosclerosis and cancer. The mechanism(s) responsible for their favourable properties are also reviewed.
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