Statins can inhibit proliferation of human breast cancer cells in vitro

The effect of five statins, i.e. atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin and simvastatin was investigated on the proliferation of the human breast cancer cell line MCF-7. All statins except of pravastatin were able to inhibit cell proliferation up to 90 % at a concentration of 50 micro M. Between the effective statins no significant difference was observed indicating a class-specific effect. These data suggest that statins may have clinical significance in the primary prevention of human breast cancer beyond their cholesterol-lowering effect. However, clinical proof must be awaited before drawing any further conclusions.