Antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of statins

Inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase or statins constitute the most powerful class of lipid lowering drugs, widely used in medical practice. During the past several years additional actions of statins unrelated to cholesterol reduction have been identified which includes antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Since atherosclerosis is a form of inflammation and the immune system play an important role in its pathogenesis, pleiotropic effect of statins may provide complementary explanation to their clinical benefit. This article reviews the data regarding the antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of the statins that are available in the treatment of atherosclerosis and possibly may be applicable in other inflammatory diseases or conditions with the involvement of the immune system.