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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
13:45
A Method to Study the Correlation Between Local Collagen Structure and Mechanical Properties of Atherosclerotic Plaque Fibrous Tissue
Published on: November 11, 2022
Plaque stabilization: Can we turn theory into evidence?
1Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02135, USA. plibby@rics.bwh.harvard.edu
The American Journal of Cardiology
|November 28, 2006
Summary
Statins (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors) may stabilize atherosclerotic plaques beyond cholesterol reduction. Further research is needed to confirm the mechanisms behind their rapid benefits.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Coronary events frequently arise from thrombi caused by atherosclerotic plaque rupture.
- Atherosclerotic plaque biology can be modified through lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the concept of plaque stabilization.
- To reexamine the evidence supporting statins' role in plaque stabilization.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical studies in experimental atherosclerosis.
- Analysis of clinical trial data, including imaging and mediator analyses.
Main Results:
- Statins reduce serum cholesterol and coronary events.
- Emerging evidence suggests statins may enhance plaque stability, independent of lipid-lowering effects.
- Preclinical and clinical data indicate potential anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic roles of statins.
Conclusions:
- Statins offer benefits in coronary events, potentially through mechanisms beyond lipid reduction.
- Further investigation is required to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying the rapid plaque stabilization effects of statins.
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