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Pleiotropic effects between statin intake and inflammation parameters in two distinct population-based studies.
Dennis Freuer1, Jakob Linseisen2, Timo Schmitz2
1Epidemiology, Medical Faculty, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany. dennis.freuer@med.uni-augsburg.de.
Communications Medicine
|September 11, 2025
Summary
This study investigated statin use and inflammation-related proteins, finding associations with TRANS, TRAIL, and SCF. These results enhance understanding of statins' pleiotropic anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Statins possess pleiotropic effects beyond lipid-lowering, including anti-inflammatory properties.
- The precise impact of statins on inflammation-related proteins in metabolic pathways requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between statin use and circulating levels of numerous inflammation-related proteins.
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the pleiotropic anti-inflammatory effects of statins.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of up to 90 inflammation-related proteins using Olink Proteomics in two independent population-based studies (KORA-Fit and KORA-Age1).
- Inclusion of 803 (KORA-Fit) and 1008 (KORA-Age1) participants aged 53-93 years.
- Application of multivariable regression models and directed acyclic graphs to control for confounding factors.
Main Results:
- Significant associations were identified between statin intake and specific inflammation-related proteins after multiple testing adjustments.
- Strongest evidence supported positive associations with TRANS and TRAIL, and a negative association with SCF.
- Further consistent associations were observed for NT-3, MMP-10, uPA, and CD244 across both studies.
Conclusions:
- Statin intake is associated with distinct inflammation-related proteins, suggesting links to specific metabolic pathways.
- These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind statins' pleiotropic anti-inflammatory actions.
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